Op-Ed: Ba Ba Black Sheep

“Ba Ba Black Sheep”

Special to Swellesley from Susan Connolly, Mother of 2 & an ex-Wellesley High School Spanish teacher, 1999-2009

I’ve never really been one to follow the crowd, nor have I ever cared about keeping up with the Joneses. In fact, as far as I’m concerned, the Joneses can bite me.

However, it is becoming increasingly more apparent that as a parent, I am one of the few black sheep in a field of mostly white ones. Perhaps I’m the product of some recessive gene like most other black sheep. Perhaps I’m just a little bit crazy. Parenthood can do that to you. In any case, I’m cool with that.

My children have now come to understand the harsh reality that they will not be keeping up with the Joneses, in spite of their best efforts. Sorry, little lambs, but this Ewe is running the show, not YOU.

In this CULTure of over-indulged, over-enrolled, over-stimulated and pathetically desensitized children, so help me GOD, I will fight like hell to adhere to the following house rules.

1. There are and never will be toy or real guns, slingshots, swords or weapons of any kind allowed in our home. There is enough violence in this crazy world, and I will be damned if it will be mimicked within the confines of these four walls.

2. If you want to have a your own cell phone, iPod touch, Kindle, iPad or any other electronic device, you must be old enough to have a part-time job and pay for it yourself. Working towards a goal is good for your soul. Technology can be wonderful, but children don’t NEED their own devices, nor should they be handed expensive gifts on a sliver platter. READ A BOOK (the kind made from trees)! PLAY OUTSIDE!

3. With the exception of swimming lessons (which are non-negotiable for your safety), you may choose no more than ONE activity per season in which to participate. Pick something you enjoy and have fun. You don’t have to be the state champion, the team captain, the prima ballerina or the president of anything. Enjoy!

4. At school, be kind and respectful. Do your work, give your best effort, and above all, LEARN SOMETHING! It’s not about the grade.

END RANT