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It’s Just Five Minutes Late! My Son Thinks I’m Overreacting About Timekeeping
Why does teaching timekeeping feel like mission impossible with teenagers?
“Mom, it’s just five minutes late! Why are you making such a big deal out of it?” my son says, headphones on, completely tuned out, with an eye-roll that only teenagers can pull. But let me tell you, timekeeping is not just about being on time. It’s about respect, discipline, and yes, maybe a sprinkle of drama if necessary.
Let’s get one thing straight, I do not just keep time; I honor it. I am the type who would rather arrive five minutes early than risk showing up late. Call me old-school, but I believe punctuality is a sign of respect, for myself and for others. And honestly, I do not have the patience for those who treat my time as an optional extra.
Take my two sisters, for example. (If they are reading this, no hard feelings, ladies, but facts are facts!) We would agree to meet at 2pm, and they would waltz in at 3:15pm, no apologies, no explanations. It is as if they thought I would be sitting there twiddling my thumbs, thrilled to be waiting for their grand entrance. For years, I tolerated this, telling myself it was just “who they are.” But then, I started my self-care and self-love journey. And guess what? Part of loving myself…
