My younger son fusses freely about many things. But when he’s sick, particularly with the stomach flu, his true inner gentleman emerges. No matter how horrific the bug, my stoic 8-year-old barely complains, and calmly embraces a delirious, meditative state. He’ll observe, “My stomach hurts so much it’s funny.” Or, politely, “Don’t talk please until I’m done.” After retching, he launches into lively conversation, as if on a sunny afternoon stroll, instead of crouched around a 1 a.m. toilet.
Last night’s commentary floored me (literally). After a violent bout of dry heaves, he mused with a twinkle in his glassy eye: “What if you got pin worms, pink eye, lice and the stomach flu, all at the same time!?…” He added, “Isn’t it good that they don’t all come at once? We sure are lucky, aren’t we?!” Its 3:43 in the morning; the child has vomited every hour since 11:30 p.m., yet still reflects on his good fortune.
Kudos to you, son! And to all you parents and children who are battling this flu. I’m sure I’m next. At least, thanks to my son, I’m armed with a healthier attitude!
Submitted by Kandy

March 26th, 2009 | Category: Metro Parent