Draw Nearer

Little Bear Cubs,
I usually try to write to you about something uplifting and encouraging....but tonight....a letter of chastisement is in line. The subject: Technology.

You were both very good this year and Santa granted each of your requests for a Nintendo DS Santa was brave sending gaming equipment into a home that has been so "anti-gaming-for the kids". Santa envisioned you playing this for a limited amount of time each day - and taking them on road trips.....rendering the car silent for hours on end.

It seems that there have been a few unanticipated side effects of this gift he chose to give. Tonight as we gathered around the dinner table, I had to REMOVE them from the death grip of your little hands so you could fold your arms and say prayers. When Daddy returned from the gym tonight, you didn't run to greet him like you always do. It was the first time - ever - that you haven't run to him. He was so sad. When it was time to go visit grandma - you didn't want to go because you would have to leave your games behind. When it was time to go to bed - you didn't WANT to go - because you would have to wait nine hours to hold it again.

Santa must have been a little confused. Maybe he thought that you would be able to balance things a little better....that you would exercise moderation and prudence.....he must have forgotten that you are 4 and 6. Santa ALSO forgot to include the disclaimer in his package:

"ATTENTION....all children/adults who use this hand held gaming system to the neglect of family relationships will be punished by having said equipment smashed in 100 pieces....located in the driveway under a minivan tire."

Maybe Santa gave you this gift to teach your mom and dad how to set boundaries for this type of thing....so we could teach you how to LOVE something without letting it CONTROL you. Maybe he has given us the chance to teach you about balance and moderation.....teaching you how to have technology without leaving your walkie talkies, bikes, and bug catchers behind....

I don't want to go postal and destroy your DS's.
Sooooo....here is a new word for you......
"limitations". You will become well acquainted in the morning. You may resent me for it......but I will make sure you never miss running to your Daddy again. Not for a game.....not for TV.....not for any of these things that are of limited worth.

It's a hard thing being a parent....introducing "fun" things out of love - at the risk of them creeping in on the relationships that hinge on that love. Our family comes first....we have to keep it that way.

Mario, Luigi, the Sims and Nintendogs can wait their turn. Family First.
I love you so.

Hope you understand.....
The Mama Bear