There are few no-gos when it comes to raising children, but that doesn't work: Our author believes that you shouldn't say under any circumstances if a child is your favorite.
When a distant acquaintance said the other day that she has one of her four children best, a cold shiver ran down my spine. To think that is a bit nasty, but somehow understandable. (Especially when one or two of the youngsters tend to pound each other all the time or toss on the floor in front of the supermarket checkout when there is no lollipop – and another one doesn't). To say the whole thing publicly, however, I find really, really anti-social. Personally, I am of the opinion that mothers are allowed to do practically everything: drinking, thinking bad things, sometimes being lazy. That's why nobody has to feel guilty. But to say out loud that you have a favorite child even crosses my line.
Better to lie!
Not because I don't understand that mothers go crazy sometimes, but because I feel sorry for the others, no matter what kind of asshole children they are. It just sucks when you know that even your own mother might love you, but still find others better. I don't think you can really get rid of that in your life. In fact, studies on the subject say the less popular ones are at higher risk of lower self-esteem, depression, and anxiety disorders. Doesn't surprise me a bit. I'm basically for honesty, but in that case you should lie really well. Sure, there might be a favorite with multiple mothers, of course we're all human, but that's where the performance has to be. Even if you have to lie – or just keep your mouth shut. Unfortunately there is no alternative.
Equality for all
There is also another possibility: Maybe you really like all children just the same. Sometimes the one less, sometimes the other more, but basically the same amount, just different because every person is different. Equality at all levels, so to speak. After all, it has never hurt.