Short Story: I'll Be Kinder Tomorrow

This evening, I was harsh with my son.

"How many times do I have to tell you!"

His school bag was left thrown in the entryway.

One of his socks was under the sofa.

And on top of that, he was spilling crumbs everywhere while watching TV.

I didn't mean to get angry.

I really didn't.

My son looked dejected,

and said "...I'm sorry" in a small voice.

The moment I heard that, my heart ached a little.

At night, after my son had gone to sleep.

In the quiet living room, I think to myself while picking up the scattered snack bags.

I'll be kinder tomorrow.

I'll listen to him properly.

Before I get angry, I'll ask him why.

I was just tired today. That must be it.

Tomorrow, I'm sure I can do it.

Thinking that, I go to sleep.

The next morning.

"Where are my socks!? Mom!"

"I told you to put it in the laundry basket yesterday!"

"What? I didn't!"

"Why didn't you put it in!!"

And then I realize.

Ah, I failed again today.

Even though I had intended to be kind.

After my son left for school,

there was a note left on the table.

It was written in shaky handwriting.

"I'm sorry about yesterday.

I'll do it properly tomorrow."

Seeing that, I can't help but smile.

"I'll do it properly tomorrow."

That phrase,

it seems that we, parent and child, use the same one.

I stuck the note on the refrigerator.

And I think to myself.

I'll be kinder tomorrow.

I probably won't be able to, again.

Even so, as long as I'm thinking it, it will surely be alright.

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Thank you very much for reading until the end.

It was a short story, but I hope you enjoyed it, even if just for a moment.

If you'd like, please share your thoughts with me through a "like" or a "comment."

I will read any comments I receive while quietly pumping my fist in celebration.

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