LOOK WHOS TALKING

Here’s a conversation between a 30-yr old man and a kid.

Don’t “Rock the boat.” Stick to the rules and follow.

Stop asking what time we’ll get there. It’s annoying. Just think we’re going to get there. Period.

Stop crying. You don’t get all the toys you want.

Don’t get yourself dirty.

Stay away from dangerous places.

Don’t say mean words.

Pay attention when I speak. I am older. I know more.

Kid’s reply to Adult:

If you don’t explore, you won’t see new things. If you keep on sticking to the rules, you’ll not make mistakes,you will not learn. How do you think did I figure it’s not right to eat paper? It’s not about sticking to the rules. It’s about making decisions and being responsible for them.

I ask because I want to know. Sometimes, asking is not about doubting or nagging. Sometimes, it’s all about taking interest- interest in the process, not just the end. It’s the enthusiasm that matters. If you keep on looking at the end, you’ll miss the “going there” part. That’s the coolest. Why do I ask what time we’ll get to grandma’s house? Because I look forward.

Stop whining and complaining. You don’t get everything you want. If you go for something and fail, go forward. Move on. There are better things in life than new things. New toys are exciting, but old toys make me feel like a master! I know how to work them. Therefore, after I cry, I move on and play. You should too.

Getting dirty is the way I play and enjoy. It’s my way of learning new things, discovering the undiscovered. Stop being prim. Get muddy once in a while. You’ll see you’re definitely missing out on lots of worms.

Dangerous places make me realize there are other places apart from my playground, from my tiny little box of sand. They ignite my curiosity, my need to explore. Dangerous places make me brave. Try it. Wait, how do you know what’s dangerous anyway?

I say “You’re not my friend” and “I hate you” simply because I don’t like that child for stealing my toy. You on the other hand, when you’re mad at someone, you say it to other people rather than straight to that person’s face. Which is worse? Expressing and being honest? Or pretending and being someone else?

I listen. All the time. When I don’t do what you tell me, it doesn’t mean I didn’t listen. I listened, but I just didn’t follow. I have a chance at a life of my own. You’re older, but that doesn’t mean smarter. You being older doesn’t make you any better than me. After all, you just went a couple of years ahead. Wait a few more years, and then let’s talk again.

The usual lecture turned out to be one of the most compelling and life-changing moments. In the adult’s life.

-NIK