Another excuse.

Ray provides constant entertainment to all of us. He is the main source of our mood swings. He sees to it that we all are on our toes, alert & active. Every day I am improving my skills with my previous day’s experience with him. I keep on telling myself, “I have produced him & I will tackle him!”

On one such day, Ray was watching his favourite YouTube video. He was laughing out loud, fully engrossed in the video. This bundle of dynamite was a treat to watch, with his animated hand gestures, mouth opened wide with excitement & a twinkle in his eye!

As I looked at the clock I realised it was time for me to put on the ‘mean mommy’ hat again.

Me: Enough of watching this madness. Close everything & open your books.

Growling, he picks up his books. Opens the first page & stares at it.

Me: What happened, daydreaming?

Ray: Mom, I can’t see anything clearly! My eyes are hurting. I think I will have to rest for a while.

Me: Go splash some water in your eyes, they’ll be fine.

Ray was dragging himself to the bathroom as if he was tired & exhausted. I sat there at his desk & chuckled. I wanted to point out the flaws in his acting skills. He was walking so slowly as if his legs were hurting & not his eyes. Anyways I had to keep my serious face on & not engage with him. He came out with his head drooping & fully soaked in water. Very slowly he picked up the napkin & started wiping his face. I was losing my patience but was still holding on to the last drop. After a little nudge from me, he came to his desk & opened his book.

Ray: Mom there’s not much change in my eyesight!

Me: I know all your excuses. You better start reading before your eyes get worst.

Ray: It’s all blurry, mom.Me: Read even if the text is fading away.

Suddenly his tone changed, his volume increased. His attitude made a U-turn from the meek boy to the arrogant boy.

Ray: If something happens to my eyes, I am going to blame you for the rest of my life!!!

Me: (Completely stumped & yet keeping an unaffected expression on my face) Ok, now read.

At that moment Vin came home from work. He asked what was the commotion about. Apparently, our voices had crossed the house walls & he heard us from outside. This was embarrassing, but I still held my stern face & motioned towards Ray.

Vin: What’s the matter, Ray?

Ray: My eyes are hurting, I can’t see anything properly, everything is blurry.

Vin: Oh my, what happened? Come here & show me.

Me: Don’t encourage him. This is his tactic to waste time & not study.

Ray: Mom you don’t care about me, but if daddy cares at least don’t stop him. We small kids need parents love & concern.

Ray goes running to his dad, sits on his lap & hugs him.

As usual, Vin melts down in his warmth & smiles.

As usual, I am left wondering, what just happened? (Secretly Laughing)