My Mom used to say: "Wait until you're an adult, then see how many handouts you get."
My Dad used to say: You're a beautiful little girl and will be even more beautiful as a woman. Mark my words, men are A-holes."
Me: "Dad, what's an A-hole?"
Dad: "You don't need a definition now or later. When the time comes, the definition will become crystal clear."
Both are right. My parents passed away when I was 14 y.o. My Dad died of cancer and 2 months later, my Mom had a massive heart attack while driving. Fortunately, no one else was in the vicinity when she lost control of the car. She died at the scene. I have missed them both.
My Mom's sister and her husband took me in:
Aunt: "Mind your manners, Young Lady. Don't think I can't take you over my knee and give you a good whooping." I knew she was all talk and no action. She was very strict and I loved her for that, because that's exactly the type of upbringing I needed.
Uncle: "You can come talk to me about anything. If it's about a boy, I'll give him something to think about while he's in the hospital. So, choose wisely. If it's about a restriction imposed by your Aunt, come talk to me about it and I'll double it. Otherwise, we're good."
Yes, I grew up in strict households. Like most teens, I tested the ropes and boundaries. And in both, there was more than enough love to go around.