How to Avoid Household Chores

At the age of fifteen, I had perfected the art that so many teenagers have learned. Of course, at that age, teens are supposed to be "learning to be responsible". This is the dreadful thing they feel the must learn to avoid. So, of course, they learn to avoid any semblance of "responsibiliby". They perfect the art called "avoiding household chores".

The most-used method is developing the sudden sick stomache. At the very mention of washing supper dishes, you quickly turn off the television and grab your stomach. Tell your parents it was something you ate. Maybe too much sugar in the dessert. If Mom says she didn't use "that much sugar", opt for the last resort. Run to the bathroom and lock the door. Then quickly run a cupful of water, make gagging sounds, then pour the water into the toilet. This is usually proof enough. This will usually allow you time in front of the television, wrapped up on the couch, watching your favorite program.

Another much-used method is shifting responsibilty. This requires enough courage to face angry parents.

It's Saturday afternoon, and your heart is set on meeting your best friend at the Mall. Suddenly, Mom declares this "house-cleaning day". You rush to your room, shoving mountains of clothes into the closet and kicking everything else under the bed. Then Mom tells you to vacuum the living room, dust, sweep and mop the kitchen floor, and get clothes sorted for laundry. Get all angry for "taking someone else's turn". Argue that it's your younger brothers' turns. They're supposed to be doing all that, this time.

Believe me, if you put up enough of a fight, you'll be out of the house, in time to meet your friend before she tries on her first outfit. Your brothers may be a little angry, but they'll get over it. Besides, you'll make it up to them. Next cleaning day!