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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Shopping (03/01/07)
Shopping For Shoes

Walking briskly toward the mall entrance, clutching my purse closely to my side, I was a mom driven by a purpose. Mentally I reviewed the floor plan of the expansive shopping center, mapping out the most efficient route between shoe stores. My heart rate accelerated with excitement and anxiety as I anticipated making what I considered to be a major purchase.

I spoke over my shoulder to my son asking, “Where do you want to go first?” I never slowed down or missed a step though I didn’t hear an answer to my question. I ploughed through the heavy glass double doors and started down the short hallway that led to the main wing of the mall. It was then I sensed for the first time that the space behind me was empty of sound or presence. Slowing down and turning, I spotted my son lagging 20 feet behind me.

“Come on, Erik, catch up!” Exasperated by his lack of enthusiasm, I pressed on toward Foot Locker. I noticed again that the 12-year-old “apple of my eye” was not hurrying at all but was seemingly stalling for time. In a flash of insight and astonishment, I understood that the boy, who a few short years ago gazed at my face with rapt adoration, was purposefully avoiding me! This adolescent fruit-of-my-womb did not want to be seen with me at the mall!

In the midst of the epiphany, I realized that I had a definite choice in how I would react to the knowledge that my son was embarrassed to be with me. I could allow the pain of rejection to twist like a knife in my heart. Instead I chose to laugh! After all, he might not think it was cool to be with his mom, but the truth was, I had all the power…I had the checkbook! So, still chuckling, I led my son around the mall until we found him the perfect shoes. Leaving the mall that day my son walked right beside me. With his blue eyes twinkling with pleasure, he looked at me and said, “Thanks, Mom.” My heart melted…little did he know I would have bought him the moon!
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Maryolyn Payne
03/10/07
This is a sweet story. You have highlighted a great truth and reality check for young parents. God bless, Maryolyn Payne
Loretta Leonard
03/11/07
You have described an experience which every mother of boys faces at one time. Too many parents forget to use humor to work around problems. Teens have a variety of emotions as they grow up and need understanding rather than being put down. I like your approach and it shows a Christ-like attitude.
Patty Wysong
03/13/07
Cute! A good reminder to us moms!! =)
Donna Powers
03/15/07
A very sweet mom-oriented tale. I just loved this. Nicely done.
Deborah Porter 
03/21/07
Jill, I can only echo what everyone else said. This was a nice little slice of family life. I have a 19-year-old son - I know what you mean. He has never actually avoided walking with me, but I do remember when I suddenly lost my "coolness" in his eyes.


I really liked the last sentence. Nice way to round it up.

With love, Deb (Challenge Coordinator and Editor, FaithWriters' Magazine)