After watching Forever on Netflix, I walked away not just entertained, but deeply reflective. It’s one of those coming-of-age stories that isn’t just for teens; it’s a mirror for parents, guardians, and anyone navigating the delicate balance of growth, trust, and communication. Here are a few life lessons and parenting takeaways:
1. Teach Kids to Think Before They Ask
One of my favorite moments was when Dawn taught her kids the simple yet effective method of asking, “Who, What, Where, When, and How.“ A concept we might remember from economics class, but here, it was parenting gold. It empowers children to process situations critically before even coming to a parent. It’s not just about giving answers; it’s about raising thinkers.
2. “Find the Howard in Your Life Today”
When George told Keisha, “Find your Howard today,” it struck a chord. How often do we wait for a perfect moment? A better time? George’s words remind us: what if tomorrow never comes? Live with urgency. Start now.
3. Compassion in the Face of Betrayal
Christian’s betrayal—leaking a private video—was painful. But what stood out was Keisha’s response. She didn’t seek revenge. She didn’t try to destroy him. She chose grace. That takes maturity and strength.
4. Communication is Everything
Whether you’re rich or just getting by, emotional presence matters more than material things. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. The way Justin’s parents handled difficult conversations showed that open communication lays the groundwork for trust and healing.
5. Preparation is a Life Skill
When Justin’s father reminded him to always be ready, it was a quiet gem. Preparation is more than a checklist—it’s a mindset. One that pays dividends across every area of life.
6. Let Them Grow Up
Eric, Justin’s father, said it best: “A man has to go through the fire to find out who he is on the other side of the heat.” Sometimes, the best thing we can do is step back and let our kids rise. Growth needs space.
7. Teens Think They Know It All—They Don’t
Keisha believed leaving school would fix everything. It didn’t. Teens may act confident, but they still need guidance. And more importantly, they need someone willing to listen.
8. Emotional Recovery Requires Room
Keisha was still emotionally recovering from Christian’s betrayal, yet she was entering a new relationship with Justin. This is where a foundation of open, honest dialogue could have made a difference.
9. Boundaries. Safety. Self-Worth.
We must teach our kids that intimacy isn’t casual. Not everyone deserves access to their heart—or body. Boundaries are essential for emotional and physical safety.
10. Vulnerability Heals
The moment Keisha’s mom opened up to Dawn was powerful. It wasn’t a grand gesture, but a simple act of being there. Sometimes healing begins with someone sitting in the dark with you.
11. A Man Must Follow Through
Justin wasn’t sure if college was the right path. His mom’s words were firm but fair: “A man must know how to follow through.“ It’s a reminder that doubt is natural, but commitment defines growth.
12. Owning Our Parenting Gaps
Keisha’s mom admitted she hadn’t created a safe environment for honest conversations. That moment of vulnerability was critical. Healing starts with acknowledging what went wrong.
13. Clarity Is Power
Keisha’s dad made a tough observation: Justin was clinging to her because he was lost. Keisha later repeated it during an argument—and it became Justin’s reality check. You can’t build a healthy relationship without first knowing who you are.
14. Honesty Pays
Every turning point in Forever was driven by one thing: honesty. Whether it was painful or freeing, honesty was always the door to growth.
Final Thought:
Yes, some of the explicit content caught me off guard. But it was also a wake-up call. Teens today are navigating intense, complex realities. As parents, we can’t afford to be silent or reactive—we must be proactive. Start the hard conversations. Create safe spaces for truth to thrive.
Have you seen Forever? What lessons stood out to you? Who was your favorite character?
Like and share with someone who needs to read this.
The Brief Network: Inspiring Stories and Empowering Lessons.
