I was driving Brennan over to spend some time with his grandparents and the following conversation took place:
Brennan: I don’t see why I have to go over there. All they are going to do is complain about my hair and tell me to take a shower. Then they are going to talk about something that I don’t believe in and we will get in a fight.
Me: You could use a shower and don’t engage in a conversation if it is something you don’t believe in. Your problem is you like to stir the pot.
Brennan: There is some truth in that. But some of things they believe in just make me want to curl up into a ball.
Me: Your problem is you like to debate, argue and sound informative. The reality of the situation is, you haven’t lived enough to have informed opinions on some of the topics you tackle. I rarely discuss politics or religion because I have found that it is highly unlikely that I will change anyone’s opinion and they are unlikely to change mine. So when people begin a conversation about taboo topics, I nod quietly and try to escape. ( I know what you all are thinking, I can’t wait to corner Kim and start talking about …. Don’t do it!)
Brennan: But I like to discuss things.
Me: “Discuss” is an interesting way of phrasing “pick a fight”. Just stay away from topics that you know will cause trouble.
Brennan: Easier said then done. Apparently, I have a big mouth. (like mother, like son).
It is getting harder and harder to get pictures of the boys. They run at the site of my camera and my phone. I took this on the sly while at a stop sign.
Well you can tell he is growing up. Does he have issues with gramma and grandpa about religion? Yep he is at that age. My girls did the same thing. Tell him its ok. Growing up is sometimes a little hard but Moms and Dads and Grammas and Grandpas have been there and done that and just want to help the young ones out.
You are right about the growing up thing. He is totally testing boundaries. I am glad he is forming opinions, now he needs to learn to respect other’s. He is very lucky to have supportive and loving grandparents on both sides. I know he is trying to find his way and I am very proud of him – even though he frustrates me often. He and his brother are my heart.