[Vigilanteman]

My daughters did not get their first cell phone until they went off to college. When they gave me the old excuse that "I need to call for a ride when I'm done with after school activities", I loaned them my prepaid TracFone.

I was a mean father. So mean that all three of our daughters grew up to be useful, competent citizens.

[napscoordinator]

Most of us didn’t have phones in college. They didn’t even have them as a rule. They were the exception. I am sure you were a fine parent but not like it was that big a sacrifice.

[Chgogal]

Something to be said about good parenting and the word “NO”.

[publius911]

I was a mean father. So mean that all three of our daughters grew up to be useful, competent citizens.

The ultimate reward and satisfaction from being a good human parent.

I was also one of those 'meanies.'
And in any future life, I intend to so be again.