Apologize First
There are two sides here. First, you worked hard and finished what Dad asked— that's wonderful! Second, you forgot Mom's task along the way.
Murali's family was planning a big party at home for Hridya's seventh birthday. They invited about fifty close relatives and friends to join them in celebration.
The day before her birthday, everyone was busy getting ready for their little princess. Murali had his tasks too—some from his mom, others from his dad. Right after breakfast, Dad asked Murali to wash all the plant pots in their small garden. There were two dozen of them. As Murali got ready to start, Mom asked him to go to the nearby store for a few things. She handed him a list and some money. He agreed.
Meanwhile, his parents went out for shopping other things. Murali thought, "There's plenty of time. I'll clean the pots first, then go to the store."
He began washing the pots, but it took longer than expected, and he forgot about the store. He even skipped lunch to finish. Just as he wrapped up, his parents came home. Mom headed straight to the kitchen and looked for the items she'd asked for. Not finding them, she called Murali. "Where did you put the things from the store?"
That's when he remembered. "Mom, I didn't have time to buy them," he said simply.
"Where did your time go? I asked you this morning. Are you getting lazier as you grow up?" Mom sounded angry.
Murali had worked hard all day, even without lunch, so her words stung. "How can I do everything when you both give me so many tasks at once?" he replied, a bit upset.
"If you were as responsible as you say, you'd have finished both by now," Mom teased. That made him even madder. "I'm not going to the store!" Tears started rolling down his cheeks. He ran to the side yard where no one could see him cry.
Grandma had overheard everything. She saw Murali rush off, then went to the kitchen. "Don't upset him more," she told her daughter. "The poor boy hasn't eaten lunch yet. I'll get him to go to the store after he eats."
"Hmm," Mom replied.
After a few minutes, Grandma found Murali in the yard. "You did a great job cleaning those pots, son. Aren't you hungry? Wash up and come eat. I haven't had lunch either, since you were working so hard."
She kissed his forehead, which calmed him down. "Grandma, I didn't mean to forget. Cleaning the pots was tougher than I thought."
"I know, dear. Want a tip for handling things like this next time?"
"What is it?" Murali asked, wiping his tears.
"There are two sides here. First, you worked hard and finished what Dad asked— that's wonderful! Second, you forgot Mom's task along the way."
"Yes, but it wasn't on purpose."
"I know it wasn't. Still, it's a small mistake. If you'd said sorry for forgetting first, then explained why, Mom would have understood right away. See what I mean?"
"Hmm..." Murali thought about it.
"Now, wash up quick. Let's eat lunch together, then go to the store. Deal?"
"You're coming too?"
"Yes, my dear."
"Okay, Grandma—that's great!" Murali cheered up. He knew she'd probably buy his favorite treats too.
***
Life-Skills Introduced in This Chapter
Taking Responsibility for Mistakes: Acknowledging when you've forgotten or overlooked a task, even if unintentional, to maintain trust and harmony.
Apologizing First: Starting with a sincere apology before explaining reasons, to de-escalate conflicts and show respect in family interactions.
Managing Multiple Tasks: Prioritizing and balancing chores or duties, while learning from oversights to improve time management.
Handling Emotions Calmly: Dealing with frustration or anger by stepping away to cool down, and accepting comforting advice from elders.
Seeking and Applying Guidance: Listening to wise tips from family members, like grandparents, to resolve issues and grow personally.
