May 1, 2010
- Keeping The Peace
Dear Mrs. Figgins:
I am very angry with my neighbor. I thought we are “friendly” but boy not anymore. It’s war.
My kids have friends over on most weekends. They play their music like all kids do. OK, it’s not my kind of music but I figure it’s best to have them at home than out somewhere.
Last Friday night the police showed up and asked the kids to turn off the music or go inside the house to listen to it. This is our house. It’s Friday night for goodness sake. What’s wrong with people now days?
Why didn’t they talk to us first?
What should I say to him?
Terry,
Dear Terry:
My advice is that your “kids” say “I’m sorry we disturbed you and your family last Friday. Please let us know next time so we can correct the problem before the police is called”.
It’s obvious your neighbors don’t want a confrontation. And yes, everyone would have been better served had the neighbors knocked on your door and asked for the music to be turned down. Fortunately, the police coming to your house on a noise complaint won’t damage anyone’s record. I don’t know the history with your neighbor. Do you know if your neighbor has sleeping issues, or health problems? Isn’t their time as important as your kid’s time?
More important, this is a “teachable moment” Terry. It is a great opportunity for your kids to learn responsibility, and that life has “boundaries”. Their good time should not be at other’s expense. “War” is not the answer.
It sounds like a good lesson for everyone.
Mrs. Figgins
Advice & opinion on everyday issues by Mrs Figgins with common sense & good old-fashioned-values!
How To, Relationships, advice
