A father comes home from work late, tired, and irritated. His 5-year-old son is waiting for him at the door…
SON: “Dad, can I ask you something?”
FATHER: “Yes, of course. What is it?”
SON: “Dad, how much do you get in one day?”
FATHER: “This is none of your business. Why would you ask such a thing?” he asked angrily.
SON: “I want to know. Please tell me how much do you get in one day?”
FATHER: “If you must know, I get 50 euros a day”.
SON: “Oh”…, answered the child, with his head down and continued… “Dad, please can you lend me €25?”
The furious father replied:
“If the only reason you asked is to borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other crap, then go straight to your room and to your bed. Think about why you’re so selfish. I don’t work hard every day for such childish frivolities.”
The little boy went quietly to his room and closed the door. Dad sat down, thinking about the kid’s question, and got angrier. How dare he ask such a question to get only some money? After about an hour, Dad had calmed down and started thinking: Maybe it’s something the kid needs to buy for 25 euros because he doesn’t ask for money very often.
He went to the door of the kid’s room.
FATHER: “Are you sleeping, boy?”
SON: “I don’t sleep.”
FATHER: “I was thinking, maybe I was too harsh with you earlier. It’s been a long day, and I’ve taken my tiredness out on you. Here are the 25 euros you asked me for.”
The kid ran straight up to him, smiling.
“Thank you, Dad!” he shouted. Then he goes to his pillow and makes some crumpled money underneath. As soon as the father sees that the child already has some money, he gets angry. The little kid starts counting his money slowly and looks at his dad.
FATHER: “Why do you want more money if you already have some?”?
SON: “Because I didn’t have enough, but now I have.”
“Dad, I have 50 euros now. Can I buy a day of your time? Please stay home tomorrow. I’d love to eat and play together.”
It is crucial for children’s healthy mental and emotional development that their parents devote time exclusively to them. The absence of both parents from home for many hours due to their work costs the children a lot. The unsatisfied empty feeling will not be fulfilled even when they get older. All they need is a warm and tender embrace, the parents’ practical love, and their presence. This attitude will accompany and guide the child throughout his life. Try not to pass on your children’s real needs! Look at them; they’re there for you!
Happy new year, with health and smiles! Keep the people who love you close to you and enjoy all the precious moments your children give you!
