My father in law called me out at dinner last night

EricNew Dad

1w ago·1 min read

Was checking my phone while my wife was talking about her day. Her dad set his fork down and just looked at me. Didn't say anything mean, just looked disappointed. Didn't pick it back up the rest of dinner. That stung more than any lecture could have. Realized I've been doing that too much lately. A man's attention is a gift you give the people you love, not something you divide up. Started leaving my phone in another room during family time.

5 comments220 views

Comments(5)

KKevin M.New Dad1w ago

Your FIL did you a solid with that silent call out. Bedtime routine chaos makes me reach for my phone too, but my wife deserves my eyes more than Instagram does.

DDante J.New Dad1w ago

That look says everything. I've been there, phone in hand during dinner, and it's a gut check that hits different coming from the father in law. Good on you for recognizing it in the moment.

MMike C.Regular1w ago

Man, I've been there. The phone thing is so automatic now I don't even realize I'm doing it half the time. At least your FIL cared enough to say something instead of just judging.

BBrandonNew Dad1w ago

That's a tough but fair call from your FIL. When my wife's talking I've definitely caught myself in that trap. It's weird how a look can be more effective than any lecture.

MMiguelRegular1w ago

Ouch. Your FIL sounds like he handled that perfectly though. That fork-down moment hits different when it's silent. Did it actually snap you back into the moment?

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