Children's game reverberates throughout train
Last week I got on a Red Line train crowded with children on some kind of day care outing. There were at least 20-25 kids spread throughout the car. It soon became apparent they were returning from a rare day game at U.S. Cellular Field.
Kids will be kids. They were all talking loudly and excitedly about the game and such. Soon I heard a rhythmic chant rising from the back end of the car. At first I couldn't make it out. Then I recognized the common childhood game:
"Rock paper scissors. Rock paper scissors. Rock paper scissors. Rock paper scissors. Rock paper scissors. " Over and over again. "Rock paper scissors. Rock paper scissors. Rock paper scissors."
That went on for at least 10 minutes. I rather enjoyed it, actually. Even Saddam likes to play.
Not sure who won, but they had some fun, even without this guide.
I actually have that book. It's very educational. I enjoyed the read. Makes you look at Rock Paper Scissors in a totally different way.
Posted by: Becky | July 25, 2005 at 12:36 PM
With the exception of being trampled or slobbered on by them, precocious kids on the El are often the best thing about any particular trip.
Sometimes it's just them laughing about something silly, or having a lively discussion about something only a kid would find interesting. Other times it's just this spongelike look on their faces. I remember when I was a kid and every minute seemed to take a year because everything it's all new and you're just trying to soak in as much as you can.
It's also encouraging to see those rare parents who are talking to their kids, really engaging them. You see so many examples of awful people who have no business being parents in this city, it's just very troubling. When I observe those parents who patiently answer kids' endless supply of questions, then gladly explain the workings of the train and point out places of interest whizzing by in the city landscape, I just want to start handing out medals.
Posted by: jk1 | July 26, 2005 at 08:15 PM