Curse You Gadget

It was never clear to me when I first heard this phrase used in any context regarding myself. It was just one of those phrases that seemed to magically emerge in a happy home. Always used in a playful and humourous manner, but also conveying a message of innocence that can only originate in a child’s mind. It is certainly a memory that keeps on surfacing from time to time from my subconscious. Bringing back memories from times gone past.

I do have some thoughts as to the genesis and motivation of its origin. Most likely some mischievous imps, staying up past their bedtime; their minds not ready to let go of another day; interpreting the world as they only can. I am certain there were many, many more phrases but this one seemed to develop a level of permanence.

As our family grew up, one of the casualties of adulthood are the vivid imaginations of the children. Slowly, imperceptibly, almost taken for granted, the march of time carries with it intended and unintended consequences. We are still the parents, but relate and engage at evolving and changing levels.

And recently the final stages of independence are approaching as our children move out and begin their journey though life. Subtly, imperceptibly, we are no longer the parents in the context and role we have fulfilled to date. You want to hold onto the past, but are also looking forward to the future. First one and then another graduating. But there are still two more to go and enabling us to justify in our minds some semblance of responsibility.

So here I am, at the starting coral for the half, not quite ready to let go. Despite all the signs, the reality, and the onward march of time, Inspector Gadget was going to rise up again and would hear that familiar line at the end of the day. Curse you Gadget.

It was not to be. The arms. The legs. They were not up to the challenge. I am now a passenger for the rest of the journey. And I do look forward to the drive.