When Were You Born?

“We’ve known each other for a long time,” said the critic, motioning toward a chair next to her.

“It certainly has been,” I smiled slightly and sat down.

“We’ve had many conversations, but this is the first time you’ve asked me for an interview. Why?”

“It’s time to rebuild our relationship as partners, instead of adversaries,” I quickly responded.

The critic looked at me with consternation and nervously brushed a long strand of hair away from her face. This is the first time I sensed she was uncomfortable.

“You must really hate me,” she nearly whispered. “And with every negative review and comment I’ve dished out, your hatred has grown stronger, hasn’t it?” she further inquired.

I wanted to answer, “Oh, no. That’s not the case.” I remained silent, knowing that it would have been a lie, and she’d know it too.

She continued, “I hope you’ve appreciated the positive feedback I’ve given you.”

“Positive feedback? I don’t remember any positive feedback from you. Perhaps, the instances were so few and far between that I can’t recall any.”

“I’m sorry,” I heard through the fog of growing irritation.

“Your apology is not why I asked you for the interview. I’ve realized that your constant criticism, although not pleasant, pushed me to work hard and relentlessly strive to achieve. You know me in ways no one, including myself, sees me. At the same time, I feel that you don’t know me. But, let’s start from the beginning. How and when were you born?”

There was a long silence as the critic stared at me surprised.

“You know that mom’s criticisms contributed greatly, but my foundation originated with your loving grandparents and your Catholic upbringing. Do you remember your grandfather saying, ‘Our Moniczka can do anything’? Do you remember grandma’s insistence on being good, going to the church, and praying daily before going to sleep?”

“Wait a minute. So, the belief that my mom’s negative reinforcement and glass-half-full approach to life as the primary cause of my critical nature was incorrect, and the positive, loving grandparents’ expectations were the origin and foundation of your being?”

“That’s right,” the critic stated hurriedly, looking at her watch. “This is enough for the first interview. We can meet again if you want to continue.”

“I’m not sure what my expectations where. I certainly didn’t think this would turn into a process of discovery,” I thought to myself as I left the room without saying goodbye or looking back. “Will I return?” I heard the door closing behind me.