So, I accidentally shut the car door on Mgazi’s fingers the other day. I am POSITIVE that she was more scared than hurt. Regardless, there was a lot of crying, comforting, and apologizing. She was crying. I was apologizing. She finally calmed down and said, “Mommy, I just don’t understand WHY you would do that to me.”
I said, “I didn’t do it on purpose, Gaz. It was an accident. I’m sorry.”
She replied, “It’s okay. I just wish I knew why you did that thing.”
“Mgazi, I just told you. It was an accident. I didn’t mean to shut the door on your hand. I am very very sorry.”
“It’s okay, Mommy. I love you.” She paused. “Can you just tell me why?”
I pretended not to hear her, turned up the car radio. Why wouldn’t she just let it go? Did she want a bigger/better apology? Was she angling for a “Mommy-is-feeling-guilty” ice cream cone? Or did she truly want to know WHY I slammed her fingers in the car door?
Hey Gaz, pick the answer that best fits the question.
A) Because Mommy is rushed and not paying attention.
B) Because you didn’t move your fingers fast enough.
C) Because Mommy has a little pent-up aggression quietly bubbling under her seemingly smooth surface… kidding!
The answer is actually D.
D) Because she did. She did and she’s really sorry.
