My full-time job requires me to drive groups of people in a limousine on joyous occasions. One thing I have noticed is that adults, when free of their children, feel it necessary to talk incessantly about those same offspring they are seeking relief from. A recurring theme among adults is the lack of respect for authority, and the sense of entitlement the younger generation has. Like most things I observe in life, I have a rather simple explanation for this phenomenon...Santa Claus.
I think that Santa Claus, or at least the concept of him, is the reason our children feel like the world revolves around their very existence. We were taught our whole lives that Santa only rewards good behavior, and neglects the bad children. Yet, when Junior has been suspended from school three times, is on probation for lighting fires in school, is on a first name basis with the truant officer, and is not allowed to possess a pocket knife by order of the court, he will no doubt find the newest video game system under the tree because, hey, it's Christmas. Where is the accountability?
I propose that parents keep a log of all the misdeeds their children commit during the year. Then, when presented with their child's list of desired gifts, assign a point value for each gift requested. Do the same with the misdeed list. Deduct the appropriate amount of points, and see if Junior even deserves a stick of gum when your done.
My kids used to have to do chores just to bring the balance up high enough to get Christmas dinner. Try it. It works.
Have a joyful, if undeservedly generous, holiday season my friends.
