Modern Day Amenities…

Nathan often watches me as I work on my social media platforms. he’ll usually watch cartoons on his device while he does, especially since watching me write does nothing for him. But while doing some work on my YouTube channel (FYI, I have a YouTube channel, “The Blogging Buddhist.” GO SUBSCRIBE!!!), I usually take the time to watch a video or two afterward. You would think that my preference would be martial arts or fighting videos. And in truth, I DO watch some of those. But i also indulge in a lot of SNL and MadTV clips. Mostly because I enjoy laughing at stupid stuff.

One of the things I do enjoy watching is a channel with creepy stories called “Mr. Ballen.” He’s an ex-marine who tells creepy stories on a variety of topics. I’ve also been watching a variety of scary stories from a few different channels. It’s particularly entertaining late at night when it’s gotten dark out or the wind is blowing. Anyway, Nathan has creeped around a bit and has listened to some of the scary stories. You’d think that a 7-year old would be creeped out by scary stories. Not this kid; he’s become obsessed with them. I know some would probably argue the point that he’s a bit young to be watching scary videos… Actually, there’s never anything shown but a forest background or dim-lit house. It’s an oral telling of a scary story; no different than reading a book.

Some good has come out of it, as well. He absolutely LOVES restoration videos. There’s a particular channel where the author buys rusted out antique toys or items, takes them apart and restores them to a new state. One of the last ones he watched a was a rusted, seized pocket watch. Watching the restoration process was fantastic. The amount of work and the steps involved in taking something old and turning it into something new, thereby proving that all things can still have use, if one is willing to work to make it happen, was wonderful to watch.

Although sitting one’s child in front of a screen is not the best way to occupy their time, I have to admit that it’s been a way for Nathan and I to share something specific. We shared a fascination with creepy stories as well as a love for restoration. There are worse ways for a father and son to spend an hour or two. Food for thought…☯️