The statements that start with “If only...” or "They never..." or ask “Why me?" can fill your days and keep you disconnected from your children – and your lives. Pay attention to who your child is, and what they are attempting to say, instead of wishing they were different.

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Marilu Rendon (l.), 18, from Linda Marquez High School, gets a hug from Linda Levine after picking a prom dress at the Assistance League of Southern California headquarters in Los Angeles, California, March 6.