So, a couple weeks ago (yes, I’ve been thinking this one through) I’m having an arbitrary conversation about kids and kid stuff: trends, friends, the usual fodder. I mention that the Mighty Pubescent One is dating and silence befalls a once fluid conversation. The conversation resumes- albeit spasmodically, “Oh no, St. Pious The Divine (name changed to protect the probably not as innocent as his parents believe) is not allowed to date and when he goes out, if girls are there, I send Sister Chastity the Beloved. She’ll tell me if he talks to any girls.” The young people of whom I am referring are 18 and 16 years old. And, no these are not faith-based restrictions; which I respect even if I disagree.
I then ask, The Exalted Commander of Hormones if she believes that fear and forboding are a formidable opponent to human nature, to which she…well, I blocked the ensuing nonsensical tirade from recollection. Let’s just say she was quite certain that fear and forboding conquers all. I then ask, “Well, do you discuss methods of disease and pregnancy prevention just in case an errant erection eludes you”? She uttered a vehement, “no”.
Now, one thing I’ve come to understand about myself is that I have a very difficult time accepting when my friends and/or associates are: 1. Ignorant 2. Cruel to animals or children 3. Not fans of the Dave Matthews Band. So, to rule out any of the aforementioned, I try my probing questions technique. “Do the children ride bicycles, in-line skates, scooters and the like? Do they wear helmets? Does the donning of said helmet somehow encourage the children to propel themselves from high buildings in front of motorized vehicles or careening down rough terrain at high velocity?” The discussion lightened a bit, I think I even heard a, “Girl you’s crazy as hell!” Then, I went in for the kill. Dropping an octave or so, I asked, “Isn’t protecting our children’s lives and quality of life the prudent choice? I mean, this really isn’t about our pride , or is it”? What are your thoughts?
This post was originally published on Tea & Honey Bread, in July of 2009. The Mighty Pubescent One is still dating the same young woman. I am still in possession of my birth heart and all its original valves-in short, “team prudence” is having a successful run at this.
