Conflict and Compromise: The Battle Over the Radio

June 21st, 2008 | by kelliw |

Life would be so much simpler if we all liked the same kind of music - duller but simpler. There would be less conflict and compromise moments for my family. We could enjoy each other’s music instead of torturing each other with it.

Every time my kids and I get in the car, the battle of the radio begins. My son wants to listen to the new dark themed music of the day as it paints the bleakest picture of the world possible. My daughter wants to crank it up with a fast-paced, full of attitude, country song. I want to put on Rod Stewart’s “It Had To Be You …… The Great American Songbook.” It’s Rod Stewart singing the best of the Oldies. I love that tape. It’s like therapy to me, like slipping into a bath of Calgon. The music ‘takes me away.’ But I’ve played it so much, the kids can’t bare to hear it again.

It’s not that we don’t ever agree on a song. Some of their music is catchy, and I like to sing along if I’m in the mood. But often, it is pure torture. The overall affect of total discomfort is magnified by the fact that we are all stuck in the small space of the car while being force-fed someone else’s taste in music.

For short local trips, we just have to endure. But for long trips lasting several hours, we have had to take steps to ensure we survive. We have purchased 3 portable fifteen dollar MP3/CD players and a ton of batteries. Each person uses their device with a pair of earphones. The kids each listen to their own choice of music, and I usually enjoy an audio book on mine. No one has to suffer, and everyone gets to listen to their favorites. It works for us to wipe out the battle of the radio on our vacations. That means no more conflict - just an easy compromise. Give it a try on your next long road trip. And by all means, get you a copy of Rod Stewart’s “It Had To Be You” CD. Even your teens will like it if you don’t play it hundreds of times for them.

Click on the picture below to listen to the different songs on this album. And thank your lucky stars that you can’t hear me singing along. And before you go, don’t forget to drop me a comment. I want to know what you think about this album.

  1. 4 Responses to “Conflict and Compromise: The Battle Over the Radio”

  2. By tina on Jun 22, 2008 | Reply

    Hi I found your blog on entrecard and I am trying a new approach to dropping my card. I am actually going to read a persons post before I drop my card. Cool concept I know so I read this post and I find it a good idea. I am not at the point of fighting with my kids over the radio yet. They are to young to have a certain type they want to hear so I WIN for now. But when the time comes I will remember your idea. Have a nice day.

  3. By Margaret on Jun 26, 2008 | Reply

    Do invest in rechargeable batteries and a charger. You’ll be really glad you did. Although the initial outlay might be a bit higher than just buying disposable batteries, in the long run you’ll save money and the planet!

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  4. By kelliw on Jun 28, 2008 | Reply

    Thanks for visiting, Tina. I’m going to check out your blog, too.

  5. By kelliw on Jun 28, 2008 | Reply

    Thanks, Margaret. Rechargeable batteries is a good idea. I do use them with my camera. By the way, I visited your blog and enjoyed your post about Jott.

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