I plopped down next to Full Speed to help him sort and fold some laundry. Every once in awhile I like to help the boys with an occasional assigned chore. My hope is that it teaches them to help others without being asked.
“What is your plan for me to come get you for the dentist tomorrow?” I said.
“What time is it?” said Full Speed.
This is where time seemed to slow down. I felt myself leaving my body, hovering over the scene as anger arose from within me.
“I know you are not asking me what time your appointment is. The one that I told you about and ask that you develop a plan for when I should come get you. The one that I sent you a text message with the details and reminded you to figure out when I should come get you. I am trying really hard to not sound annoyed right now, but I realize I am not doing a very good job.”
“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Wait a minute! You know you have to tell me things at least four times before I actually remember them,” said Full Speed (for the record I did, probably more).
It seems I could tell each and every one of the men I live with about appointments a thousand times and it would not be enough.
Eventually, with some mindful breathing, I accepted the situation as it was. I also calmed my mood by realizing that I won’t always have to be in charge of my boys’ appointments. At some point, they will need to figure that stuff out on their own. My guess is, especially in the realm their future dental care, scurvy could be a real possibility for them…
Later that night, I was writing out an early dismissal note for Full Speed.
“What period will you be leaving?” I said.
“I’ll leave after seventh period,” Full Speed said.
As T.Puzzle sauntered in the room, he caught a snippet of the conversation.
“Why is Full Speed leaving early?” said T.Puzzle.
“For your dentist appointment,” I said.
“Wait. When is that again?” said T.Puzzle.
I would write more but for the safety of my children, I have relocated to a monastery to begin my zen training in earnest.
I have no other option.
Writes for all Mommies 