Why Do My Parents Seem So Strict?

Dear Lyfteenites,

So tell me, have you ever felt like your parents are just too strict? Maybe you’ve thought, “Why can’t they just let me live my life?” I remember one weekend when one of my cousin's friends were planning a sleepover, at the time, my cousin, Prince was with us, and my mom said no. He was so upset. Every of his friends was going, and he felt like my mom was just trying to ruin his social life.

But later that night, Prince overheard my mom talking to his dad on phone about safety and how she was worried because one of the other kids’ older brothers who smokes and drinks would be there. Prince later realised, It wasn’t about controlling him, but, that my mom was actually protecting him. That moment changed how I personally saw my mom's “strict” rules.

The truth is, our parents aren’t perfect. They may not always explain their decisions in a way we like, but they care about us. They’ve been through things we haven’t, and they see dangers we might not notice. Some of us will say, well, their ways then can't be compared to our present digital season. The Bible says in Ephesians 6:1-3, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother' which is the first commandment with a promise‘ so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth."

This verse doesn’t mean we have to agree with everything our parents say. But it reminds us that honoring them, even when we don’t understand their reasons brings blessings. When I started seeing my parents as protectors rather than obstacles, our relationship improved. I also realized that having boundaries helped me make better choices.

So, next time your parents say no or set a curfew, instead of reacting in frustration, try asking them (politely) why. While you give them the chance to share their reasons, be patient and attentive enough to understand their reasons and I bet you might be surprised at what their reasons are. And remember: their strictness is often just love in disguise.

Standing with you,

Lyfteen Hub