Stuff my ‘Mean Mom’ said back in the day

I was raised in the 1950s and 1960s when the entire world ran slightly different from today. Especially in parenting. The way my parents raised my siblings and the way my wife and I raised our three daughters seemed to be worlds apart. I actually let my kids discuss with me, argue with me and get away with telling me I wasn't fair.

That never happened when I was growing up. Never! So for this Mother's Day, I will share with you some of the things my wonderful Mom said to me. And I'm so glad she did. Here are here sayings:

You use that word again and I'll wash your mouth out with soap.

You know dear, you brought this all on yourself. You only have yourself to blame.

For cryin' out loud, it's only a scrape, you'll live.

You're not going anywhere bub till you clean that room.

Wipe that smile off your face or I will.

Call me when you get there so I know you're safe.

Don't make me stop this car, because if I do.

You just wait till your father gets home.

And just when did I ask for your opinion?

If Billy asked you to jump off the cliff, you would too I suppose.

My God son, were you born in a barn?

Just when did your slave quit and I took over the job?

Keep making that face and it'll stay that way forever.

As long as you're under our roof, you'll live by our rules.

This is going to hurt me more than it's gonna hurt you.

Over my dead body you're taking the car.

There's starving kids in Africa, now eat your supper.

My God son, you'd argue with a stop sign.

Listen mister, I brought you into this world, I can certainly take you out of it.

Keep cracking your knuckles and you'll be sorry when you're older.

My God boy, do you really think money grows on trees?

Talking to you is like talking to that brick wall.

If you had a brain, you'd be dangerous.

Honey, we're not laughing at you, we're laughing with you.

One day you're gonna have kids and then you'll see.

Yeah, it's all fun and games until you break your leg.

So to all of our mothers reading this today, please know that each and every one of you is very precious and special. Happy Mother’s Day to you.

John Sheda lives in Independence.