Children

Parents are the bones on which children sharpen their teeth.
Peter Ustinov

My wife and I were pleased when our 17 year old son signed up to ride in the MS 150 bicycle ride. We thought this would teach him the value of discipline and the importance of preparation.

Instead, he informed us that training was for the old people. He insisted he would complete the ride on the strength of his will.

We urged him to prepare, but he would hear nothing of it. We expressed our skepticism about his readiness, and he labeled us the “Haters.” He taunted us, and told us we would be sipping “Hateorade,” after the ride.

Naturally, the ride was a huge success. He not only finished, but he sang to other riders as he passed them. He mocked us throughout the ride with text messages.

My wife and I were reminded, again, of fundamental truths about parenthood. First, we are more likely to underestimate our children than overestimate them. Second, proving your parents wrong is a powerful motivator. Finally, Hateorade doesn’t taste all that bad