She also questions your wisdom in allowing the boys to kill cockroaches with Johnny's aerosol deodorant. I'm sure you've already discovered the infrequency of praise for your tireless service. To enjoy long-term youth ministry your validation must come from the confidence that God is using you to impact the lives of young people, not from the praise of others. Beyond all the hype and flashy programs, it's the relationships with kids that measure an outstanding youth group. Your relationship with kids will last years longer than the faint memory of your best message.
Messages are important, but relationships impact kids more than speeches do.
They remember the time we spent together. Teenagers need strong relationships with adults. Though few admit it, they desire significant relationships with older people. When your kids feel the love you have for them, they will understand your spoken messages about God's love much better. Build relationships that will continue beyond graduation.