Achieve Quote by Rumaan Alam
“Kids are the ultimate trump card: a way to get out of co-op board meetings or lunch with a friend you don't want to see or your brother-in-law's set at a comedy club. It's fair to use your kids as an excuse to sidestep what you don't want to do; it's less fair to blame them for not being able to achieve what you do want to do.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Yorker, 2020
Kids are often used as convenient excuses to avoid undesirable social obligations, revealing a selfish rationalization.
In simple terms: People use children as excuses to skip tasks they dislike.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when excuses are unfair to others.
Themes
responsibility
family
social dynamics
excuses
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- parenting
- work meetings
- social events
- friendship
Key Concepts
ethical behavior
self-awareness
boundary setting
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it acceptable to use a child as an excuse?
- How can we address obligations without blame?
A Different Perspective
Excusing oneself can damage relationships.
