Being a parent to a cocky, disrespectful teenager is far from easy, and different parents have different approaches to getting their children to behave.
One mom, Heidi Johnson, wrote a handwritten letter to her son, Aaron, and shared it on Facebook. She didn’t intend for the post to go viral. She didn’t even intend to make the post public. It was supposed to just be for friends to see, but she does not regret her post or the fact that it’s public.
In the letter to her 13-year-old son, Johnson reprimanded her son treating her like a “roommate.” She went on to give him an itemized bill for rent, food, etc that totaled over $700. If he was going to treat her like a roommate instead of his mom, she would do the same.
Johnson signed the note, “Love Mom,” and she truly does love her son. She followed up the post with another post explaining some backstory to the situation.
She also reassured parents who were criticizing her that “I am not going to put my 13 year old on the street if he can’t pay his half of the rent. I am not wanting him to pay anything.
I want him to take pride in his home, his space, and appreciate the gifts and blessings we have.”
She added that she never intended for Aaron to pay the bill. Instead, she wanted him to “gain an appreciation of what things cost.”
The reason Johnson wrote the note was to make sure her son understood “what life would look like if I was not his ‘parent,’ but rather a ‘roommate.’ It was a lesson about gratitude and respect from the very beginning.”
Johnson also explained that before she wrote the note, her son had lied about doing his homework, and when she told him she was going to restrict his internet access, he responded, “Well, I am making money now.”
She explained that the money he was referring to was a little bit of income he was making from his YouTube channel, but not nearly enough to pay for food and rent.
The public note has not hurt Johnson’s relationship with her son. She explained, “He and I still talk as openly as ever. He has apologized multiple times.”
Johnson has also had parents turning to her for advice since she posted the note to her son.
She explains, “My post seems to have opened a door, and people feel safe coming to me and asking for advice, venting, or even just have someone bear witness to their experience by listening and opening up and sharing a piece of myself in return.”
11 Unbeatable Flaxseed Health Benefits and How to Add It to Your Diet
Flaxseeds may be small, but they pack a powerful punch when it comes to nutrition and health. Loaded with fiber, omega-3s, and plant-based compounds, flaxseeds can support your body in more ways than you might expect. Here are 11 unbeatable health benefits of flaxseed — plus easy ways to add it to your daily diet.
🌱 1. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Flaxseeds are one of the best plant-based sources of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and protects against chronic disease.
❤️ 2. Supports Heart Health
Regular flaxseed intake may lower blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), and improve circulation — all key for a healthy heart.
💩 3. Improves Digestion and Gut Health
Thanks to their high fiber content (both soluble and insoluble), flaxseeds support healthy bowel movements and feed good gut bacteria.
🌾 4. Helps Balance Blood Sugar
The fiber and healthy fats in flaxseeds slow down digestion, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, especially after meals.
⚖️ 5. Supports Weight Management
Flaxseeds help you feel fuller for longer, curb cravings, and reduce overall calorie intake thanks to their fiber and protein content.
🔥 6. Natural Anti-Inflammatory
ALA and lignans in flaxseed help reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for joint pain, skin health, and chronic conditions.
🧠 7. Boosts Brain Function
The omega-3s in flaxseed support cognitive function, memory, and may help prevent age-related brain decline.
🌸 8. Balances Hormones
Flaxseeds contain lignans, which have phytoestrogenic properties that may help regulate hormone levels, especially during menopause.
🛡️ 9. Strengthens Immunity
Flaxseeds are rich in antioxidants that protect your cells and boost your body’s natural defense system.
🦴 10. Supports Bone Health
With magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus, flaxseeds contribute to stronger bones and better mineral absorption.
✨ 11. Promotes Clearer, Healthier Skin
The healthy fats and anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce acne, dryness, and support a natural glow.
🥄 How to Add Flaxseed to Your Diet
- Ground flaxseed is easiest to digest and absorb.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons daily to:
- Smoothies
- Oatmeal or yogurt
- Homemade energy balls or granola
- Salads or soups as a topper
- Pancake or muffin batter for a healthy twist
- Mix with water (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water) as an egg substitute in baking
Tip: Store ground flaxseed in the fridge to keep it fresh longer. Whole flaxseeds are harder to digest but great for adding crunch.
Conclusion:
Flaxseeds are a tiny superfood with massive health benefits. From better digestion and hormone balance to heart and brain support, this simple addition to your diet can do wonders for your overall well-being.
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