Sunday, March 6, 2011

Three Lessons in Communication

My mother-in law likes to tell the story of Jerry's first encounter with the new Spanish-speaking neighbor children, "They talk to me but I don't hear them."

I was a happy 7 year-old feeding Cheerios to our new puppy during breakfast, when my mother said, "Jeanie!  Ignore the dog!"  Ignore?  What was I supposed to do?  Feed him all my cereal?  Pet him?  Yell at him?  What?  I sat there not moving, until I heard the comforting words, "Jeanie, eat your breakfast."

He was four and I was busy.  He talked at my side and I washed dishes, all the while giving what I thought were appropriate comments.  I don't remember a single thing he said, 36 years ago - until he said, "Listen to me!"  I answered, "I am listening to you."  He shook his head, 


"Listen to me with your eyes."

5 comments:

Jeanie said...

THese are great! Love them. How do you remember all these little memories?! Oh, wait. Your a journal keeper!

Jeanie said...

Carrie, I'm assuming that YOU left this comment - I know that I didn't! You're the only one that can log into my blog as me. Thanks, for helping with all of this. And, yes, journals do help!

Naomi and Family said...

Wow, that makes me want to cry. My poor little guys, I know they feel the same way at times. But, I have been doing a whole lot better than in the past so there's hope! :)

Jenny said...

I'm glad I'm not the only one (although I realize that doesn't make it okay). Lauren occasionally whips me back into shape with a "Mom! Are you not listening?"

shelly said...

ooooh scotty you are so cute!