I threw a tantrum at my son. I, who is 36 years, was furious at him for wasting food at dinner.  He had a full bar of chocolate before dinner, so he hardly ate anything at dinner. I shook my fist at him, yelled at my dad for pampering him, swore at him saying that he would not be allowed swimming until he eats healthy stuff. The entire episode got over an hour ago. I am calm and cool, now.

The more I reflect I realize my son was far better. He never let off his cool. He retorted back for every threat I flung at him. Happily, watched television while I was screaming my head off. And, exactly 30 min after me hopping mad at him, he pacified me with a bar of chocolate. He got me to smile with a few jokes and told me gently never to overfeed him again.

Life’s lessons I learnt – One can be firm and yet diplomatic. Humour helps in really nasty situations. Never, Never overfeed – as a mother- thinking you know the appetite better – our mother’s tricks do not work with this generation any longer.

Meena

Social Science Teacher