tired midwest parents

Shoes worn thin slide by

Below tattered corduroy

No patience for queue

Entitlement is tough to witness. It’s even tougher to explain to a 6 year old who is confused about the commotion in front of us in line. We just want a cup of coffee and a hot chocolate. I suddenly have the weigh the importance of explaining how not everyone is nice, and people are going to let you down all the time.

The rest of the line tenses and gives off the same vibe. Some smile awkward and roll their eyes. Some stay stoic or stare at phones. We let the tantrum unfold and ignore it collectively. It makes me smile. People will also surprise you and find bond in kindness and patience. So the lesson? You never know what you’re going to get. Prepare for the best. Endure the worst.

Drone of familiar

Numbers hurled towards fragile soul

His time, little left

Listening to a young man aggressively coach an older associate. Ask questions, but doesn’t give him space to answer. Seems like he’s just trying to show how much he knows. Redundant and unimpressive. Older man listens, resigned to survive this conversation. Drones on in self satisfaction.

I make a note to teach collaboration to my kids this year. Show the benefit of taking on others perspective to build better ideas and solutions. Breed social interaction and connection. Make some friends. Earn some respect.

-Tired Midwest Parents