Embarrassing Moments

We are working with Colin on politeness to strangers, including saying "thank you" to the crossing guard on our way to school. Last year's crossing guard was a sweet motherly lady named Miss Lisa, whom Colin was fond of. He wouldn't say hello to other bypassers, but at least he would say hello to Miss Lisa.

This year we have a new crossing guard, a young hip African American man named A.J. He's very friendly and outgoing, so most of the kids are delighted with him.

Colin, on the other hand, has to be pressed into mumbling "thank you." One morning, as we crossed, I reminded him gently to thank A.J.

Instead, Colin screamed -- "I won't! I don't like this crossing guard. I want the old one back!"

Where is the giant hole in the earth to swallow you up when you need one?