Lessons

I was at the gas station today waiting patiently in line to pay for my things and as I stood there I was listening to a mother and her daughters interaction.  The daughter had come up to her mom with some treats in hand asking "Mom can we get these?" The mom turned around with 6 packs of cigarettes in hand and responded "No not today."  I have to confess that I did judge this woman based on her decisions and reactions.  I did think it was ironic how her daughter was unable to enjoy one of life's sweet joys, but she HAD to purchase 6 packs of cigarettes.  Anyway that's besides the point.  

Well the mom finished her purchase and tried to persuade the daughter to come away from the candy.  As we all have experienced that kids usually don't respond on the first request.  This did not go well with the mom and she continued to try different means of communication.  As she tried her voice got louder and more stern.  Finally she went to the daughter and said something that I couldn't hear, but it seamed to have worked.  At that moment I had finished my purchase and I was walking out the door the same time these girls were.  This is when I was in awe.

I hear the mom say "Gosh why do you have to be such a brat?"  I couldn't believe my ears!!  

Now to defend the lady because I'm in NO WAY perfect, I'm guilty of many unbelievable short falls when it comes to my children.  The lesson here is you never realize how nasty or ugly things sound until you hear it from someone else's mouth.  Not that I call my kids brats, but other things might have slipped out. 

My heart just crumbled for the girl when her mom said that to her.  So I vow to TRY TRY TRY to not to be so impatient or talk rude to my children.  I love my children and I want nothing more than the best for them.