Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: BUY - BYE (01/19/23)
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TITLE: I’m Outta Here | Previous Challenge Entry
By Bonnie Kronberger
01/25/23 -
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The battle between Dad and Joe had finally subsided, leaving an uneasy silence throughout the house. Joe’s younger sister earlier escaped to her room, head covered with a pillow to soften the loud voices. Joe lived life as Eeyore on a very bad day. “Poor me” showed in his posture, countenance, and efforts. He often seemed defeated before even trying. Dad was demanding a pleasant demeanor and respectful interactions in exchange for privileges.
In Joe’s seventeen-year-old head, he had every right to rebel against Dad’s rules and discipline. In the heat of his anger, all Joe remembered was the unfairness of his dad’s demands and restrictions. Joe had friends and activities that he wanted to be a part of, but Dad just wanted to make his life miserable and take away all his fun.
Entering his room, Joe forced himself to not slam the door. That would bring Dad back on his case. “Dad’s such a jerk. He can’t MAKE me act happy.”
Forgotten were the endless hours Dad spent on the 40 minute drive between school and home, giving them opportunities for sports and friendships. There was no gratitude that his bedroom was filled with the finest clothes and gadgets; that Dad provided abundant spending money. All he knew was Dad had taken his phone away for the night and he was stuck at home.
Dad wasn’t much happier than Joe at the moment. His frustration at Joe’s continual defiance made him want to weep. Dad had little tolerance for complaining and discontent and Joe had both in abundance. His victim mentality and teenage brain made his reasoning self-centered and rebellious. The flame that always lit the fire of battle between the two was Joe’s refusal to receive correction. He would argue, lie, and make excuses. Joe defending his misbehavior and being loose with the truth did not sit well with Dad.
“Joe, stop talking. Don’t make excuses for your stupid behavior. You did wrong and I won’t change my mind. You’ll never wear me down by arguing.” Dad paused, then took a deep breath to regather his thoughts. “It would be easier to just give in to your rotten attitude and not care. I don’t enjoy this anymore than you. But I love you too much to give up on being your Dad. God expects me to follow through and teach you right from wrong.”
This was the pattern between the two and the conflict usually ended when Joe quit talking. Sometimes his heart was contrite, other times he just ran out of fight.
Dad and Joe butting heads was not new, but the divorce, with Mom moving out to start a new life with a new man was. Because the kids were now living between houses, the dysfunction and parameters were new. Mom had few restrictions or boundaries for Joe. Whereas, time with Dad was often tense and contentious, determined by Joe’s attitude.
“I’m not going to live with you anymore, Dad. I don’t agree with you and I don’t like how you talk to me. I’m staying with Mom. She said you can’t make me stay here.”
Dad was not surprised by this declaration. He knew the time might come when Joe became the prodigal son. “You know the Bible says to honor your parents. Are you choosing to ignore that?” Dad looked for any sign of remorse. “When you live with me I expect you to do as I ask and follow my rules. Are you refusing to do that?
“Yes I am! I’m gonna live with Mom.” His 6’ 3” resolute stance said it all.
“I wish you would stay here and get along with me and your sister. I love you very much Joe, and want the best for you.” He looked for a softening in Joe. None came.
Dad made one last overture. “You’re always welcome in this home if you’ll respect me and do what I ask.”
With a shake of his head, Joe turned away. “I’m going to pack now and go to bed.” He had made his choice.
The ride to school the next morning was tranquil, albeit with a touch of unease. Dad lifted Joe’s bag from the car trunk and set it at his feet. Joe embraced Dad tightly. “I love you Dad.”
Returning the hug, Dad said, “I love you too, Son.”
Picking up his bag, Joe took one look back, and walked away.
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Wow!!! Is this fiction or not? Whatever it is, it is excellent.