We were on the topic of life cycle in his science book and somehow, we digressed and the topic changed to one on lifespan. So I explained to the boy that everything and everyone has a lifespan.
“Mommy too?” he asked.
“Yes.” I answered.
“You will grow old and die?” he asked again.
“Yes, one day.” I continued.
Immediately I could see tears welling up in his eyes. This boy really takes after me and is very sensitive and emotional.
I had to explain to him that it will not be so soon but he didn’t understand the concept of time. So in the end, I just told him that I won’t die as long as I don’t grow old and that kept him quite satisified.
So now, everytime he refuses to do something that is asked of him, all I have to say is, “orr, like that mommy will surely grow old very fast!” and I will get a positive response to my desire.
When my husband heard that, he rebuked me for resorting to emotional blackmail with the child.
Well, if you’re a mom, and you’re crunched for time and under constant pressures, sometimes you just have to tug some strings to make your life a little easier. And if it has to be the heart strings, so be it.
I went through a similar experience with my girl on the topic of death as well.. like you I also ended up not explaining the whole truth to her in the end… sigh.
Here’s the post: http://happyxokoto.blogspot.com/2009/03/time-flies.html
She is also the extremely sensitive sort
Tin: I read the post. Your girl is even more emotional than mine!
Comment by Tin — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 @ 9:58 am
Damien thought everyone dies at the age of 100…
Eileen: Haha…that could be true in future…
Comment by Eileen — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 @ 11:39 am
heartwrenching conversation…but he’s so mature and sensitive!
Carrie: I don’t know about being mature but there’s definitely a side of him that’s absolutely sensitive. He tears easily!
Comment by carrie — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 @ 3:47 pm
Heehee.. maybe I should try that too.
Your boy is very sensitive which is good.
Comment by zara's mama — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 @ 1:25 pm
Tug away at the heart strings, I say
Comment by Irene — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 @ 2:55 pm