Christmas Complaints
Dear Frankie,
Every Christmas, my brother and I, who are close in age, get the same presents from my mom and dad. If I get a blue leash, he gets a green one. If he gets a red coat, mine is brown.
I don’t think my brother deserves to get as many presents as I do.
He’s always in trouble at doggie daycare for teasing the other dogs, for not listening, and for not doing what he is told. I, on the other paw, am popular, well-behaved, and a good student.
Why should he be rewarded the same as me?
Roger
Dear Roger,
You are confusing rewards with presents. Rewards are given to acknowledge accomplishments. Presents are given to express love.
Have you ever considered that you are rewarded daily by being born with a good temperament and the intelligence to get good grades?
I am sure your parents are proud of you, but it doesn’t mean they love your brother any less. Good parents understand their children have different strengths and weaknesses.
The Christmas presents from your parents are their way of saying they love you and your brother the same and for who you are. It’s time you follow their lead and work on becoming a more compassionate brother.
Best, Frankie
© 2023 Geneva Woodruff
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