For about an hour, I observed the soon-to-be parentsbarely just out of sixth form college.
Not long ago, I had an appointment with my gynaecologist. As usual, there was a queue and the doctor was late. Standing behind me was a pregnant girl, about eighteen, accompanied by the soon-to-be father, also the same age. The parents took no notice of the queue and behaved however they pleased. The father beamed across the corridor, loudly chuckling at the news that he would have a son.
Isnt it brilliant that its a boy? Hahahaha
He repeated this remark at least ten times, then suddenly said, Hang on, we havent even chosen a name! Lets name him after a doctor!
He wandered up and down the corridor, reading off the names of the doctors posted on the doors, making silly comments about each one. After completing his little circuit, the young man plopped down beside the girl, still chortling to himself. A passing elderly woman gave him a sharp look and said,
Young man, would you mind lowering your voice?
The boy stared at her in disbelief and, with an irreverent grin, blurted out, Well, I reckon Gran must be expecting too! Heeheehee
His girlfriend let out a soft giggle, with the same vacant smile on her face. I had to summon all my patience not to get involved, as I didnt want a scene, especially not with a pregnant woman. Then, the young father changed topicfood.
Im absolutely starving! Ay, ay, ay
Im so hungry, and we still have half an hour to wait
Lets go for a pasty! Well come back later!
I dont fancy a pasty.
Youre getting so fussy! Ho ho ho
All their nonsense was starting to give everyone a headache, and thankfully, the pair of them left, whether for pasties or maybe scones, it didnt matter. What mattered was, they had gone.
It worried me to think about the kind of upbringing their child would receive. Most likely, their child would grow up just as unruly as they were. I hoped the grandparents might step in, but given how their own children turned out, I doubted things would be much different for the next generation.
Sometimes, witnessing such behaviour makes you realise how vital kindness and respect are in raising a child. Its not about names or meals out, but about the example you set for the ones who look up to you.
