Everyone posts heartwarming pictures of family togetherness in exotic locations that showcase scenic views, but no one posts about the aftermath he faces when he has to drag two kids to school after their trip.

Son’s eyes were already red before we even left the house. Upon reaching my (not our, because he die-die also don’t want to go to school) destination, he sobbed uncontrollably. Man, it was an ugly cry. Mucus was cascading down his nose and forming a bridge to his upper lip.

The feisty daughter was ironically easier to manage, but it might be because I coaxed her with empty promises that “we’re going to find Mummy”. Upon realizing that she was deceived, she burst out bawling at the top of her lungs.

I think my parenting skills have evolved. Just last year, I would have totally lost it and started yelling at them, especially my son. Why, just yesterday, he woke up at 7am to open his Christmas presents! Why can’t he be consistent?!

But I just kept my logical self at bay and hugged him tightly for additional seconds before firmly pushing him towards his teacher. I was short on patience, but I never raised my voice at all! Well done, Sensei!

In fact, just as I was bidding goodbye to my daughter, inspiration struck me like a bolt of lightning. I should teach my boy 嚎啕大哭 (crying his eyes out) when I pick him up later. Nothing like a teachable moment!

I’m also recording this because I fully intend to use this as an anecdote to illustrate how I can maintain my composure under pressure for future interviews. I might even chuckle and add a smug note to the interviewers - iykyk.