Despite back problems, I'm still looking after my young niece. A lovely little thing by the name of Roseanne - or Roz as her friends like to call her.
Anyhow, at 13 she likes what she does, and does what she likes - unless she's around me! Stroppy madams are a nightmare to contend with, but a subtle touch is often what's needed. Taking advantage of the fact that I cannot get up and chase her, she's been pushing her luck a little. Last week we clashed opinions over what telly programmes we were about to view. Making a big issue out of missing a certain 'America's Next Model' show because I followed another regular one and both being on cable, couldn't tape it for her, she stropped in a manner in never been witnessed by me before and slammed the door using a few choice words.
Before her next visit, I asked my friend to tape my show on her video and would watch Roz' show with her. I was appalled at some of the language (beeped) and displays of selfishness, two-faced bigotry and sexual references. I at first thought it must be shows like this that are influencing teens all over the world. Then the other side of the show came through where the girls had too be focused, punctual, strong and prepared. This was hard work. Competitive. Roz was openly watching the girls reaction to all sorts of disappointment, hurt and jealousy and learning that they managed to overcome some of life's challenges.
I was wrong. The show wasn't influencing and changing her into another being at all. It was simple making her reach out to others in their teens and early twenties. The point of where her life will remain roughly the same. For in my teens was I not vain, selfish and two-faced? Rotten to my siblings? Of course I was. And if I'm honest, Roz perhaps reminded of how I exactly used to be but with the added bonus of compromise. For this day on we will be watching and taping in alternate weeks. But guess who's watching the repeats of the model show?
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