worldly wisdom

Emma: Mommy, I know the S-word. It's a bad word...

Me: I see. What word is that?

Emma: Shut up. (anticipation of my reaction apparent in her tone...)

Me: You're right. That's not such a nice word to use.

Emma: I also know the F-word!

Me: (oh, no. here we go, all the good innocent days are fading... already??) Right. And which word is that?

Emma: (silence) Phoney!! (big eyes stating 'I can't believe I said that to my mom!') -- Is that a bad word.

Me: (holding back relief and satisfaction) Well,... it can be a not-so-nice thing to say about someone. It would probably hurt someone's feelings if you called them with that name.

Emma: I know.

...

Emma: I also know the other S-word.

Me: (can't this be over already??) Which one is that?

Emma: Stupid!

Me: Yeah, that's an old one we've talked about before. Not a nice thing to say. right?

Emma: Right. I don't like it. Some kids use it all the time. I remember I used it when I was three and my friend got upset. I don't use it.

Me: I remember that. I'm really proud of you that you try to be kind to others. That makes a good friend.

Emma: **shy smile**