Guess what? I'm not a brat. I challenge, instigate and contradict, but I am not a brat. I am a strong, submissive whose submission must be earned and, therefore, treasured.
I will not pout because of a rule infraction or punishment. I will pout if you fail to articulate your reasoning.
I will not sulk because I've been punished or disciplined. I will sulk if you haven't explained to me what you expect and how I have failed to achieve your expectations.
I will not be disrespectful because you set standards of behavior. I will be disrespectful if you have not commanded my respect through your dominance and institution of expectations.
I will not taunt you because your methods are weak. I will taunt you if you fail to demonstrate your authority over me through consistency and affection.
I will not cry because you didn't love me enough. I will cry because I feel abandoned and alone in my shame at not pleasing you.
I will not scream because you didn't reach out to me in my time of need. I will scream when you leave me alone in the abyss to which you have brought me.
I will not seethe because you didn't do what I expected/wanted. I will seethe when you presume that you are unnecessary in the process of reconciling the intensity of emotion you created and abandoned me to face this demon alone.
No, I am not a brat. I am a challenge and a treasure. Earn me and your rewards will be boundless.
