A Lesson in Parenting

Meke needs a nap every day. The problem? She doesn't like naps. She becomes very strong-willed when it comes to nap time.

Determined not to sleep a wink, we played the "in-bed, out-of-bed" game for about 10 minutes. The entire time Neti kept trying for my attention. "Daddy!" "Daddy!"

Deep in battle with a 3-year-old and determined to relieve Neti of the role of mother she has played for so long, I tried to dismiss her for just a few minutes. "Shhh, Neti. Meke sleep."

Finally after a few more unsuccessful tries at settling Meke down I turned my attention to Neti. She reached her arm out to an imaginary doorknob and pulled it violently toward her chest.

I got it. She wanted me to slam the door. I put Meke in bed, slammed the door, and waited on the other side for the sound of scuffling feet and tiny hands trying to turn the doorknob.

Nothing.

Meke was asleep within a few minutes. The wisdom of a child. Thanks Neti!