Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Sometimes bad days need big brothers


I knew something wasn't right when there was no chipper "hellloo" called when he walked in the door. Instead he came in the office and silently sat down.
"How was your day?" I asked carefully.
After a couple of silent seconds, he quietly answered that it was the worst day ever.
"Start at the beginning," I urged.
He then proceeded to tell me about his very frustrating, lonely, defeating day. I was all ready with my pat on the back until the clincher....a soul crushing comment hurled at my boy by another boy. My heart sank. I said a silent prayer that his happy, friendly nature would remain intact and that I would have the words to help heal the hurt.
During the conversation, Christian had been come coming in and out of the room acting like he wasn't listening. I knew better.
Trying to buy myself a little time to come up with my response, I asked Christian if he had any ideas of how Gabe should respond.
"Yeah..I do," he said. "Next time you see him, reach across the table and punch him in the face."
I look at Gabe and see a little hint of a smile forming.
I give Christian a chance at redemption. "Hmmm..let's see, if that doesn't work do you have a plan B?"
"Sure. Find out what girl he likes and then get her to like you. I know you'd be good at that."
At this, Gabe breaks into a full on grin.
My need to come up with the "right" repsnse no longer appears necessary.
Thank goodness for the heartfelt advice of big brothers.

As Christian walks out of the room he casually asks, "By the way...what was that boys name?"
Took the words right out of my mouth.

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