Why We Follow Rules We Think Are Stupid.

So, do any of you follow any rules that you think are stupid?  Did you ever become a part of an organization and in order to be a member you had to abide by some guidelines you thought were stupid?  Did you ever get a job and you had to do something stupid like arrive on time?  Wear a certain kind of clothing?  Perform the duties you were being paid for?

Yah.  Me too. 

This is one of those things I talk to my kids about because, you guessed it, they already have to follow some rules they think are stupid.  The conversation generally goes something like this:

Kid:  I hate wearing a belt with my school pants. It's a stupid rule.  Do I really have to???
Me:  I think it's pretty silly that you have to wear a belt too, but yes, you do.
Kid:  Why???
Me:  Remember when you signed your name on that paper saying you would follow the school rules?
Kid:  Yes.
Me:  This is one of them.
*The End*

Pretty straightforward, pretty painless.

What I can't figure out is parents who try to find ways to help their kids get around the rules.  Take on school officials over some insignificant issue so that their precious child can have their way.  I'm serious.  It makes me feel like I'm on the train to crazy town.

Years ago, my husband and I were youth pastors.  During a conversation with a school administrator, my husband was told that in the 10 years this gentleman had been working at the high school, they had had 1, one, ONE parent that sided with them when they tried to hand down discipline to a student.  I was dumbfounded.  Actually, I'll admit that I thought he was exaggerating.

But, now, after having had my kids in the schools for a few years now, I doubt he was.  It is appalling to me that parents are so quick to bail their kids out and demand that their kids get their own way.  Appalling.  Aren't we, as parents, supposed to be teaching our kids how to one day function in society?  Isn't one of those lessons that they need to learn the one that talks about having to follow rules or face consequences?  Shouldn't we tell them that they won't always get their own way?  Don't they need to know that the boss won't care if they think the company uniform is nerdy?  Do we really want a generation of kids who live at home until they're in their mid 40's because they can't man up and do some stuff they don't want to do??  Anyone??  Bueller??

I know I'm preachin' to the choir here because I doubt any of "those" parents are probably interested in reading my blog.  But, I had to get it out.  I know I don't have all the answers, but come on.  This shouldn't even be a question.