The Scream

It is my observation that people at the grocery store can be divided up into 2 main groups: Those without children and those with children. The later group can be subdivided into those whose children are misbehaving and those whose children will be misbehaving the next time.

My children do OK but they have their moments. Before I continue with my rant I will say that I am not so far removed from the without children group that I have forgotten what it is like. I remember thinking, "why don’t they just control those kids" or "my children will never be allowed to behave like that". Here’s the problem, with few exceptions (and those usually involve a bodily function of some sort), most children don’t exit the birth canal equipped with a skill set that will get them through life. They must be taught and re-taught.

When you see a parent whose children are misbehaving your witty commentary on the situation is… not helpful. Shut up!

If you fall into the first (without children) category you are not qualified to comment on the situation. I know my children are misbehaving. They are my children after all. I have seen them misbehave before and have become fairly adept at recognizing it. Maybe you should worry about your own poor behavior and not comment on my children’s.

If you have children and feel the need to comment because your children are perfect angels congratulations you fall solidly in the category of liar/hypocrite. (If by some coincidence you shop at the East Vancouver Wal-Mart be thankful that the husband of woman who you made a snide comment about was at home or she would not have been the only one left crying.)

I remember my first grocery store fit as a parent. In the middle of it a war weary father rounded the isle his children in tow. His knowing nod spoke volumes.

Nobody likes misbehaving children, least of all their parents. It is stressful and embarrassing. Please remember I didn’t bring them to the store just to piss you off. I, like you, simply needed groceries… and an opportunity to teach my children how to behave in public.