I feel like an old old old person when I observe my children watching TV or talking to their friends. Sometimes it sounds like they are speaking a different language. I'm not "down" with the slang and I don't watch MTV among other things my kids to and this makes me feel disconnected from them. I yearn to be closer to them but when I try they sort of just.. push me away. Does anyone have any advice on how I can show my interested in my kids?
It's normal for teens to push their parents away. It hurts, but I think we all go through that phase where we want nothing to do with our parents. My dad was just really abusive to me. So regardless of what you may be feeling, don't insult your children. I don't know you so I can't say you do or you don't. But it seems like you genuinely want a relationship with your children. I know when you insult your children, your children hold bitterness against you. My dad was emotional AND physically abusive towards me from the ages 10 to the age of 20. And when he emotionally abused me, it hurt me the most. And now in the end, he thinks I've forgiven him. But I've struggled with hatred, bitterness, and unforgiveness towards my Dad. And I honestly feel God placed me to be an advocate for children who go through the same thing.
So whatever you are feeling, maybe it's anger, do not take it out on your children. Take a walk, listen to some music, do something that will give you an outlet to your emotions.
Now, I'm not saying you do this to your children. I HIGHLY doubt that you do. You seem like a good Dad just from your post.
I mean, if you weren't a good father, you wouldn't be coming to a Christian Forum Site asking for advice
Just know that this phase will past. Your children will grow and get to a point where they are THANKFUL to have parents. I know I went through a phase and I know others who have gone through the same phase. Continue drawing close to them. Make it KNOWN that you love them, REGARDLESS of how they respond to it! Because at the end, they will be thankful that through their hardest times, you were ALWAYS there for them.
I wish my Dad was like that, but sadly he was not. And still isn't. But he's changing