Lady at the store: You Suck!

Today, a Saturday close to Christmas, I took the kids shopping so they could help pick out a present for their aunt. I knew this was a risk. Taking the kids shopping is a small bit of torture. They whine, ask for things, lay on the floor, etc.

But, it needed to be done. I wanted them to participate in the gift-giving season. I was prepared for the looks I would receive while they were whining or knocking something over.

At least, I thought I was prepared.

Shake Your Head

It's just not helpful to give my kids dirty looks. Or to shake your head at me. Multiple times (you know, in case I didn't see it the first time). You accomplished nothing useful. Nothing.

Well, maybe you feel a small twinge that you could do better, but I doubt that since your current behavior has proven otherwise.

Yes, my kids are having a hard time. I noticed already. It's not just obvious to you.

Yes, they want things (they are kids). Yes, they are full of energy (they are kids). Yes, one of them is laying on the floor (they are kids). Yes, they are in the way (they are kids).

But, THEY ARE KIDS

I talked to them. I scolded them. I got frustrated with them. I picked them up off the floor. It's a process.

They are learning. I am learning. You are filling your heart with judgement.

You are a grown adult that is still learning these lessons. You didn't help. You didn't empathize. You didn't mind your own business. You judged. Your nasty looks accomplished nothing helpful.

You have no idea that I have a husband at home that just had surgery. You have no idea that I took them out of the house so he could rest. You have no idea that I'm trying to teach them to pick out a meaningful gift for someone else. You have no idea that I have a family Christmas next weekend with no time left to shop. You have no idea that I work full-time and weekends are my opportunity to instill a few holiday lessons.

The Conclusion

This isn't one of those blog posts where I wrap things up nicely and talk about the meaning of Christmas, or how I am going to look the other way and be the bigger person.

It's one of those blog posts that I keep deleting the f-word and using a different, more appropriate word.

Because, basically, you suck.

Happy Holidays. I hope you get coal in your stocking.

(And, clearly, I've done a good job since my child refused to stick his tongue out because "it's not nice".)