Pride & Laughter

Children offer parents many opportunities to feel like banging their heads against a wall is a good idea frustration and pride. I know many parents who are proud of the choices their children make, who beam with joy at sporting functions, and who shine at school activities. These parents will proudly point out their child among the throng of youngsters and beam with love.

I also know many parents who are extremely judgmental of other kids. Catching a quick glance at outward appearances and passing a verdict on said youngster's future, parents, and overall emotional state. Though frequently unfair, these judgments are a fact of society.

Being a not-made-for-TV family, on any given day my kids may provide any combination of the above scenarios. In order to keep our sanity somewhat intact, Hubby and I glory in and laugh at what others may see as negatives.

Just recently Teen played in an orchestra fund raising concert at a chain steak house. Due to the relaxed atmosphere, the kids were decked out in their polo shirts and jeans. They were neat and presentable, said Teen included. Wherever she may be, Teen has an individuality that sets her apart and offers parents many opportunities to tsk-tsk, while I am fascinated by her independent nature. As we listened and watched I pointed out to Hubby that he was parent to the only child with an unnatural hair color in the entire orchestra. Hubby's response was that "we-won-pull-your-fist-back" gesture accompanied by an enthusiastic "YES!"

 (note the cellist with the blue hair)

Then it happened that there was a dreaded teacher-email in my inbox yesterday. When your child's name is the subject line, you can bet there is a problem. So it was with sinking stomach and tightening nerves that I read through the pleasantries to the meat of the problem. Seems Boy is having difficulties with one of his 5th grade teachers. His response to his frustration  was the source of the problem. (see excerpt below)

He got mad at Ms. "X" on Wednesday and wrote an restraining order against her.  This is what it said:

        Mrs. "X" must stay at least ten feet away from "Boy"  forever or "Boy" has the right to sue Mrs. "X" for everything she owns.  signed:  "Boy."

Well, he asked me to sign one and I refused after trying to talk with him.  Unfortunately, he made two of them and gave Mrs "X" one.

For many parents this would be mortifying. For me, not so much. The issue with the teacher aside, I felt a warming sense of hilarity. So much in fact, that I shared it with coworkers, Hubby, and sisters. I mean heck, anyone can get angry, but it takes a special gift to write an injunction!