"Daddy, why is the sky blue?"
"Meg, go to sleep please. It's time for lights out."
"Daddy, I need to ask you something really important--am I still your princess even when you are mad a me?"
"Yes, Meg, you are still my princess--now please go to sleep."
"Daddy, will you sing the skies are blue song?"
"Not now Meg, it's time to close your eyes and go to sleeep. Good night."
"Daddy will you read us another book?"
"Luke, we already read our books for tonight."
"Daddy, my bed's not made will you please make it? I can't sleep on a messy bed."
Silence.
"Daddy, we need a glass of water--will you get it?"
Darn, she's right. I did forget the water. How did this water ritual start anyway?
"Water Dad, please?
"I'm getting it Meg."
"Gulp, gulp, gulp."
Okay Meg and Luke it's really time to go to sleep.
"Don't forget we have to pray Daddy."
Silence and feelings of frustration and humility.
"Yes Meg, you are right let's pray."
If you are a parent you probably know what I mean. All day long you've been hanging out with your kids--riding in the car with them--maybe walking them to school--maybe playing with them--whatever. During these times none of the really important questions ever seem to come up. You see when you actually have time to focus on them they are off doing anything else but listening to you. But as soon as bedtime rolls around it's like a switch is flipped in their little brain and the deep questions of life start pouring out.
When I was a child I believe my parents called these "stall tactics." When will we ever learn?
"I love you Daddy."
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