My embarrassment went from mild to ferocious when Mrs. Van A called her grandson, Martin, into the apartment where she quickly pulled his pants down, smacked his small bottom, and instructed him to ‘shame himself.’ My mom, a loving mother who disciplined her children when they misbehaved, covered me when I turned my face to hide from the boy’s nakedness. I was sure she strongly disapproved of this brutal woman’s disciplinary choice and felt only sadness for the young Martin.
Once properly disciplined, the small boy stood, unable to move for fear of yet another spanking. We quickly left, my mom informing Mrs. Van A of our move-in date.
“We’ll be all ready for you.” And she was back to work. Martin continued to stand as we all went about our business, my mom and I walking out the front door. My only hope was that they did not live close by.