Don't Take the Bait

I love it when a child takes the time to ask a sincere question and everyone learns a little bit of something about themselves and others.

It was a conversation with a young child about “bait”. He asked if there were many different kinds of bait. Since we were going fishing the next day I thought that was what the conversation was about. So I took him to the sports store to show him all the different types of bait. He’s a very kind child and he tried to break it to be gently “Oh, I must not have been very clear, I wasn’t talking about fish. I am talking about when people use words to try and trick you into saying or doing what they want.”

“I see now, thanks for clearing that up. So was this something that you talked about at school?”

“No, I wasn’t talking about it at school. I was listening really good, because I think maybe I take the bait and it gets me in trouble.”

“Oh, well do you want to share with me what you learned while you were listening?”

“Yes, because sometimes I learned we all take the bait. Sometimes we put bait out there (at least that is what my teacher explained.)Here is one thing I think is important. If someone is telling how to do something and trying to convince and boss you, You should stop and walk away and take some time to think.”

“That sounds like very good advice, don’t you think?”

“Yes. Oh I have homework about this. I have to find a adult and learn about a time they took the bait and what happened.”

“Wow, that sounds like an interesting homework project. I think you will find someone to interview and do a super job with that. I would love to have a copy of it for your homework scrapbook.”

He laughed. “That is a funny scrap book. Remember when my teacher had me write my name 100 times so I could spell it right.”

“Yes I remember, and if I ever forget you can show me the scrapbook!”

“Well, I have to go now. Dad says that he wants his phone back and I have to get out from under my bed. Love you.”

“I love you too, goodnight.”