They respect us, listen to us and put time into building relationships with us. That only makes me respect them more and want to hear what they have to say. As a result, I genuinely don't want to do things that would make them lose respect for me. As I've grown, my bond with my parents has influenced my relationship with God as well, because I don't want to do anything that will displease Him, either. I've found that parents can be great role models.
Youth pastors can be, too.
Sometimes youth leaders can actually encourage and challenge us to reach out to our parents as friends. Good role models are so important for teens. We need people to look up to. Because that's how we learn to start dreaming, imitate adult behavior and become mature. I ask you on behalf of my generation to continue challenging and encouraging us to live all out for God.