It was after 11 a.m.
I’d been up for hours and already had two cups of coffee.
I’d read the newspaper and worked on a blog post.
I’d cleaned the kitchen and started dinner.
I’d gone to the pharmacy and the grocery store.
On my way to the dry cleaner, with a list of more things to do in my hand, my phone lit up. There was a text from my 16-year-old daughter who was still on summer vacation.
TEXT MESSAGE: The air conditioning in my room does not work at all and so I couldn’t fall asleep last night till 2 a.m. and I woke up 20 times in a heat flash.
SEPARATE TEXT: And I’m dripping sweat.
If I had written back based on my initial reaction, it would not have been pretty.
Do you know what I’ve already done this morning and how much I still have to do?
You slept until noon (when I’m upset, I tend to exaggerate) and you’re complaining?
Is that text a nice way to start the day?
But I also know I was triggered by her discomfort. Honestly, when things don’t go right for her, I feel it. I took a deep breath and reminded myself I’m not responsible for everything, and that I didn’t have to fix the situation immediately; we’d both survive.
Parenting is not science; it’s an art. Our communication doesn’t always go well; but on that morning, it did.
MY TEXT: Good Morning, Love.
No lecture. (Admittedly, there was a bit of sarcasm but tinged with affection.)
HER TEXT: Lol.
Hence, the story of my life and lots of breathing in between;)
Your blogs are too short. I find myself dying to read more of the story– such great, important topics. Keep writing!And yes, parenting is an art. Forever working on it:)
Thanks Susan for all your supportive comments! A longer post coming on October 20. Stay tuned!
So sweet. And a great observation.
Handled very nicely, I don’t think I could say I’d have the same control. On the other hand, we are used to luxuries in life and AC is definitely one of them that I don’t take for granted. That being said, your daughters’ complaint is right on……LOL