For Better or For Worse by Lynn Johnston for August 10, 2014

Even if you dislike it, Michael, why not help your mother do the things on her list? ’Twill keep you less bored until the going to the movie.

I don’t know of a single person, who on their death bed, wished they’d spent more time cleaning.

What’s the bet that if Michael was a girl she would be expected to be doing the housework too at that age?

we know she has arranged to spend evening with Michael, probably watching a movie that will drive adults nuts. So at least 90 minutes, plus drive, is set aside for her child. She might have things scheduled for the week that include time with him. Some days you need to get things done and you need to spend the time on housework. Bills need to be paid on a schedule as well.

The work list expands to fill twice the allotted time.

Give the kid a chore.

It’s just a comic strip, folks. You’re probably thinking about it more than Lynn did when she wrote it.

Look at it from Lynn’s point of view. She never focused on what some see as Elly’s “bad” mothering, so the joke must be about perception of time.

well if you helped the time would go much faster

She would save a lot of money by going to the movie before dinner.

Depends on your point of view! ;)

Jon Smyth: On admission, yes; but the kid’s whining for all those overpriced snacks to spoil his appetite would negate the savings.