My kids have recently started using the phrase couch potato. Their understanding of what this means is not exactly correct, but they actually called me a couch potato the other day. Does this require a look in the mirror?
I hardly believe that my wife and I are couch potatoes, but when your kid calls you one, it should make you pause. They started using the phrase after family gatherings. One of my brothers-in law usually parks himself on the couch when we’re all together, watches TV and doesn’t say much. Because of this, they refer to their uncle as a couch potato. He’s not.
I’m sitting on the couch the other day with my laptop and my oldest calls me; you guessed it, a couch potato. Maybe I’m missing the definition of couch potato. I explained to her that a couch potato is someone who has no other pastimes or hobbies than sitting in front of the TV all day. CRAP! MY KIDS ARE COUCH POTATOES!
I explained to them that since we have other activities than sitting in front of the TV, that we were safe from being classified a couch potato. I also explained that sometimes, we all need a little downtime. There’s nothing wrong with parking ourselves in front of the TV for a little mindless entertainment. I am especially good at this on Sunday nights for HBO and Showtime series like The Sopranos, Dexter, True Blood or Mad Men on AMC. Sue me, I like dark dramas.
Even though I don’t believe that we are couch potatoes, I think the fact that my oldest said that is proof that they are watching us. Their impressions of us, although not always correct, are still impressions that need to be understood. Especially if the impressions are negative.
So, if your New Year’s resolution is to get off the couch and get active. Do it! You’re kids are watching!
