I’m Late, I’m Late, For a Very Important Date

A few years back, I was reading through an interpersonal communications textbook and was shocked to learn that many psychologists claim that people who are chronically late are purposely late to gain attention. It was classified as a “diva” trait, to say the least.

 While I’m sure there is some “scientific study” that supports this theory, I don’t buy it.

 I truly hate to be late, yet it never fails, that I am late for everything. I could get up at 5 a.m. everyday and still not make it out the door on time. The truth is that something always comes up: the dog hasn’t been fed, lunches are still sitting on the counter, a child barfs on the way out the door, the keys are missing, the iron is still plugged in … The list could go on and on.

 When I do finally arrive, I usually duck in to the room, hoping and praying that no one notices because contrary to the theory, I can’t stand to be noticed. If I could spend the rest of my life as a fly on the wall, I would be eternally happy. Attention makes me nervous, awkward, random, and giggly. Stupid things fly out of my mouth when my nerves get the best of me – and my nerves get the best of me when I’m late.

 Yet, I’m always late – and sometimes, for a very important date. There’s really no time to say hello or goodbye – not because I’m late, but because I have too much to do in too little time. I’m not a diva; I’m not seeking attention. I’m just a working mom who will forever be late while trying to catch up with life’s pace.

– Shannon Philpott
Blog Entry: Sept. 23, 2009

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