The Very Late Mom
I'm always early to pick up my daughter from preschool. I will run like a mad woman (so get out of my way) just to make sure I get there on time. I was raised by a single, working mom and I just remember that I was often the last kid picked up from preschool. I remember the waiting and then the relief and joy when I finally saw her face. So if possible, I want to be on time whenever I can.
Except there is this little boy named Daniel who's in my daughter's class. During pick-up, all the 2 and 3 year-old's sit patiently on a mat waiting for their parent or babysitter. Their faces just light up when their person comes into the room. Except for Daniel's. Because his mother is always always late. And I mean, always.
Daniel just sits there. Waiting. Watching the other kids reunite with their mom or caretaker. His mother is not working long hours. From what I can tell, she is not pulling a double shift, trying to make ends meet. She is just late or distracted. One time she lost track of time when she was working at someone's home as a decorator. Sometimes she is just on her cell phone outside the school. She complains that the school is too far away and the turnaround too short.
One day, she was so late that she had to bring flowers for the teachers the next day as an apology. I think she owes someone else an apology too. Her son. I really hate to judge another mom. Because I am far from a perfect mother and I prove it every single day. But this situation just tears me apart.
Every day at pick-up, I can't bear to see the look on Daniel's face. So I always say hello to him, ask him about his art project and his day. I know the teachers have spoken to his mother several times and they have told me, Daniel is not my responsibility. I know that.
Whatever damage is being done can't be undone by me. I'm not his mom. But at least he knows I'm an adult who cares about him. And that's all I can give him.
Original post to NYC Moms.
Kelcey Kintner is the creator of the mama bird diaries, a smart, funny and always unpredictable take on motherhood. Kelcey also dispenses advice you can't possibly live without at The Mouthy Housewives.
