As parents we can all relate to sleeping issues concerning children. At one time or another we have all struggled with a child who does not want to go to sleep or stay asleep. Being a parent is a tiring job and sometimes we just want our children to go to bed. I am guilty of saying, “What is so hard about going to sleep?” I cannot say that all my memories of putting my kids to bed are warm and fuzzy. So, yes I relate to tired moms and dads everywhere who just want their little one to go to bed.
In this vain, a book is becoming all the rage. I cringe even typing the asterisk in place of the letters which come together to form the vial words on the cover. The book is not a children’s book but a book written to relate to the frustrations of parents. Parents are expected to be amused and delighted by the expletives which the author believes are secretly hidden in the minds of tired parents. I find it scary that parents are expected to ban together in unity over a book which contains crude humor and such negative feelings toward children. Yes, I realize the book is intended to be funny but I find it incomprehensible that this type of language is found humorous.
For example:
The tiger reclines in the simmering jungle.
The sparrow had silenced her cheep.
F** your stuffed bear, I’m not getting you sh*t.
Close your eyes. Cut the crap. Sleep.
Have you ever felt this way? I know you are tired. I know you are frustrated. I know some nights it is all you can do to muster up patience for a child refusing to sleep. But have you really felt such harshness toward the little blessing you are given charge over? Even if there are times harsh thoughts cross our minds, do we not remind ourselves to be more patient and loving? Can you think such harsh messages about a child who is scared or uncertain before falling asleep? The book is demeaning. I cannot imagine what a child who can read would think if picking this up from their parent’s night stand.
I know many will believe I am taking the contents of the book too seriously. I feel it is a sad commentary on parenting today. Yes, parenting is hard and exhausting. Yet, this book is filled with terrible language and anger not humor.