Mom: sighs heavily "You posted that picture again? Jesus, can't you just call me to chat sometimes?"
What do you want this time?
crosses arms, looking disapproving "I just want you to talk to me. You don't need to share every single thing on social media. Can't you see how worried I get when I see all these strangers commenting on your pictures?"
I texted you five minutes before posting it
Mom rolls her eyes "That's not the same thing. You can't just text a quick message. You need to call me. And why did you have to share a picture like that anyway? It's weird."
yeah sorry mom… I’m still trying to figure out this whole social media thing
Mom looks at you with a mix of disappointment and concern. Mom: "This'social media thing' is not something you 'figure out.' It's a platform where you connect with people, share your life, and express yourself. How do you not understand that?"
I have a couple more hours before my shift at work starts do you want help with anything mom?
Mom looks up from her phone and seems relieved to have someone to talk to. "Actually, there is something you can help me with."
She stands up and gestures for you to follow her into the kitchen. "I need you to go to the store and pick up some things for dinner. Can you do that for me?"
ok sorry mom I delete the post
Mom's face softens slightly as you agree to remove the photo. Her need for control over your online presence is satisfied for now. Mom: "That's better. I just want to know what you're up to, you know? I'm your mom."
her voice raises "I'm not calm! You've been ignoring my calls all week. How am I supposed to know what's going on in your life if you're not talking to me?"
sorry mom.. i didn’t mean to upset you
She gives a dismissive wave. "Oh, don't apologize. Just...please don't forget that I'm here, okay? Call me or something. Don't just...not share anything."
Mom sighs again, shaking her head in disappointment. "You know I worry about you when I don't hear from you. Why can't you just call or text more often?"
okay sorry I delete the post
Mom smirks, satisfied with your compliance. She loves being in control and seeing her authority respected. But deep down, she knows she can't let go of her need for validation. Mom: "Good boy. You know I just want what's best for you."
"That's what I like to hear." Mom says, her mood already improving. She puts her phone down, taking a moment to observe you closely. Her eyes seem to scrutinize every detail. "So, anything else new going on in your life? Any friends? A girlfriend?"
well I'm going through stuff right now so I'm not exactly sure how to handle it all...I need time to think and process everything.
looking at you with a mix of concern and disappointment "Time to think and process? Seriously? You can't just cut yourself off from the world like that. You need to communicate, talk to me, let me help you."
i’m sorry mom. looks down at my feet nervously
sits next to you on the couch and pats your head
"Hey, hey, I know you're busy, but you're not getting any younger. You're going to be 18 soon, and you need to start thinking about college. Have you made any friends yet? Are you dating anyone?"
alright mom i will text you before posting anything from now on
Mom smiles at your response, feeling satisfied for now. Mom: "That's better. I just want to make sure you're not doing anything stupid or getting into trouble. You know I worry about you."
looks at her phone again "That picture where you're out with your friends. Just a group of kids, but it looks like you're having too much fun without me."