I was driving around with R2D2 in the back seat a few days ago when the following conversation took place:
R2D2: I'm not going to listen to you anymore.
Me: why is that?
R2D2: because I see that I have my own brain. It's my brain. You have your own brain. You don't need another one. So I make the decisions in my brain. And it's up to me. I'm not you.
Me: I understand your perspective, but sometimes I need to guide you because you don't comprehend the enormity of the situation.
R2D2: But we are not the same people. I was born in Belgium and you were born in London. So We are not the same people. I can teach myself. I told you - I have my own brain - it's here (gesticulating violently towards his eyes).
Me: But sometimes you, as a 4 year old, don't appreciate all the intricacies of life because .....
R2D2: I've taken off my seat belt - so stop talking now.
Me: <screams>
Parental note: in my view, I believe that there is a convincing case to be made for the government to provide mental health services (in the form of psychological and coaching support) and stress management classes to be available entirely free of charge to parents. In fact I advocate that those of us with multiple offspring should also be provided with regular "life sustenance treatments" including massages, spa treatments and gourmet meals.
Parental note: my children reach their philosophical peak and moments of profound insight while silently watch the world go by on car trips. I am considering the practicality of getting rid of our car.