The Junior-Senior T.P. Wars are a part of the Homecoming traditions at my daughter’s high school. Every evening during homecoming week, the 11th and 12th graders hit many of the opposing classmate’s houses. Hundreds of toilet paper rolls are tossed into trees, wrapped around plants and furniture, torn into tiny bits, and strewn across the lawn. Now and then, things get a little out of hand, but for the most part, the tradition is all in good fun. This year, our yard received some of the royal treatment. Fifty or so seniors gathered in the cul-de-sac armed with paint rollers attached to leaf blowers that made sure to blow the t.p as high into the tree tops as possible. They took the prank seriously. Being quiet or sneaky in the wee hours of the night isn’t part of the plan. The action was on full display for all the neighbors to see. One little girl, in particular, was captivated.
Five minutes later, when it was all said and done, our ten-year-old neighbor came outside in her pajamas to survey the damage. The look of sheer awe on her face was priceless. The epicness of the mess resonated with her in a big way. Inside, she shared with her family how “awesome” the sight was. The example left more of an impression on her than anyone expected, especially her mother. Upon entering her daughter’s room in the morning, she was greeted with a t.p.ed bedroom! Hanging from her bunk bed were toilet paper streamers and bits of paper scattered on the floor like confetti.
The point is that we set examples for one another even when we’re unaware of it. The younger generation is always watching. As long as our actions are all in good fun, bring on the joyous humor!
