How To Be A Mom

Despite my efforts to the contrary, Bonnie has managed to shimmy and wedge the best of motherhood onto our two very fortunate sons. Because of her, their gruff, black and blue exteriors shield their hearts with the kindness and compassion only a mom can provide. Their gentleness of soul comes from her unfailingly kind words, not from my shortness of temper.

I know I would protect my kids, but this woman would slay a dragon for them. You certainly know the line, “hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.” Well, I would posit, “Hell hath no fury like Bonnie if you fuck with her kids.”

Being a dad, I feel like part of my job is to be somewhat of a menace to them. Unless someone is knocked unconscious, has an obvious broken bone or is bleeding to the point of needing medical care, I’m not too concerned with their well being. Many times when I talk to the boys, it starts with a command like a drill instructor at Parris Island. Bonnie starts her sentences to them with, “Honey,” and “Schnooky.” Being well-mannered, they listen to both of us; me to shut me up, her to please mom.

I will take some credit, because of me they are learning to cut the grass and understand the subtleties of a squeeze bunt. But I know full well their quiet, sympathetic nature, love for their family and respect for their friends comes squarely from the devotion and endless love they get from their mother.

Dylan and Chris would be far different without her…we all would be. She gives a lot, but she takes too. Mostly, she has taken two boys and is turning them into fine young men…and doing a far better job than I ever could.