Question
Once in awhile I will ask my teen daughters to write a short note or give a call to their grandparents or aunt. Usually the letters are when they are thanking them for gifts and otherwise, they can take a few seconds to email or, with one hip grandmother, actually text. I'll usually suggest communicating when we've been talking and they mention something that I think will help them connect. Tonight for instance, the aunt, who lives alone and has no children of her own, asked me if I had seen the latest blockbuster movie. I had not, but my older teen had, so I suggested she send her a quick text as that would give them a topic of common interest. She flat out refused, saying she will communicate on her terms and not when directed. She also has unanswered emails from a grandparent who is waiting on a response. I reminded her the other day to do so but it has yet to happen. How should I address both situations and more importantly, instill in them the value of kindness to others?
