QUESTIONS: An open letter for mom

An open letter to the mom in line at the Post Falls Subway last weekend, who turned to me for my opinion about a discussion she was having with her 17-year-old son - who along with his younger brother were also in line. I was flattered and I answered too quickly to the two questions she asked.

The first one that I answered I stand by, she does have the right to meet any of her son's new friends before he spends time with them. The second question was too complex to be answered hastily. She asked if it was unreasonable to not have him drive until he was old enough to get a job and get his own car. I answered that was it was reasonable, but on reflection I think I answered too hastily. This is not something I should have assessed because it is a complex issue.

I assume I was talking to a single mother trying her best to raise her two sons, and from what I could tell, she is doing a great job. Having been a single mother to boys myself, I understand the concern about a teenager having the responsibility of driving a car, but I do realize there has to be consideration for building independence and good judgment in the boy while keeping him as safe as is possible. (And it's hard to get a job if you don't drive first.)

KAREN PARRISH NORSKOG

Post Falls