Full disclosure, I came across this article on ScaryMommy.com which inspired me to write this
post.
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| Is it just me or are phones getting BIG?!? |
The thing is, that we (that author, me,
and whoever else gets guff over this) shouldn't have to explain ourselves. In an ideal
world, our loved ones would be understanding and trust and respect us enough to
realize that we will get in touch when we can. They should have enough confidence to get that
although we adore them, we do have lives which sometimes keep us from chitting
and chatting at their every convenience.
Sadly, I certainly don't live in that
world and so, I proffer this explanation which I hope will serve to get them off my back gently
remind them of my other commitments.
1. I am driving.
I am driving and I'm about to arrive
somewhere that will require me to speak to someone. And look, if you're going
to speak to someone, at a counter, at a drive through or if I'm picking up my
son from daycare, I'm not going to be on the phone when I do it. That is just
rude people.
2. I didn't hear my phone ring.
Why? Because I work and my phone is always on silent. Ringtones are intrusive and
frankly betray far too far much personal information about you to the other 20
cubicle dwelling floor mates surrounding those of us fortunate enough to roll
sans-office.
3. Did I mention that I work?
Let me give you the TMI warning right now.
When I'm stuck in back-to-back meetings from the second I walk into work (late)
and the second I leave, I don't even have time to use the restroom let alone
shoot the breeze. True (and sad) story.
4. Because our conversation will take
close to, or more than, an hour.
Frankly, I don't have that much leisure
time to give.
5. Okay I lied. I have that much leisure
time.
But I want to spend it with my husband
watching our favorite TV show uninterrupted. Sorry, not sorry.
6. Because guilt trip much?
Sometimes I do have an extra 15 minutes or
maybe even closer to 30. But because I know from past experience that our first
5-10 minutes will be spend discussing why we haven't talked twice already this
week and there will be condescending implications that I can do better by you.
Come on, nobody enjoys that and it pretty much ensures the next time you call,
I'll be busier than ever.
7. Poop. It happens.
I straight up identify with you on this
one, Lindsey.
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| Look at this face! Can you blame me? |
8. I am spending quality time with my
son.
As a divorced, working mom who has her
kiddo 50% of the time, (for the most part) I relish time with my son. I can
rarely get enough. Sure, some times he makes me a little crazy but he is at an
age where I am painfully aware that he is growing up and I want to be there. If
he wants to play a game with me or color, I give him that. We give this time to
each other. It is the most important thing I do or will ever do.
9. No really, I'm busy.
For some reason, with one kid and four
step-kids and a full time job it still seems improbable that I, perhaps, have a
lot to do. Between soccer, presents that need wrapping, clothes that need
washing, bills that need paying and other such, well, life, stuff needs doing.
But really, have you ever put shin guards on a squirmy five year old? No. Okay
then.
10. Technology.
For real though, call it generational but
I get all my communication done via social media. Don't you? Well update your
stuff then and then well be able to make the most of those 15 minutes next time
I do pick up.
And if I call you, and you don't pick up,
I'll just assume you have stuff too. And that we'll catch up soon. <3
