Before I had a baby a couple of years ago, I had a fairly serious World of Warcraft addiction that went on for more than a year. OK, it wasn't that bad -- I didn't call in sick to work so I could stay home and play (much), I didn't ruin my marriage (mostly because my husband played with me), and my life didn't spiral out of control (except in the housework category). But still, once I became a mother, I knew it was time to give up the game. Even when we passed out of the chaos of the newborn months, I figured that whatever spare time I had should be devoted to my family, not my MMORPG fixation.
But recently I was reminiscing fondly about the primary character I played, a Level 52 Human Paladin, and it occurred to me that she might have some advantages over me in the mothering department. Not sure what I mean? Here's a list of ways my WoW counterpart would make a better mom than me.
- Her Paladin healing power would treat skinned knees and stubbed toes in seconds. She wouldn't even need a Heavy Frostweave Bandage!
- With her instantly summoned warhorse, it's pony rides anytime!
- Monsters in the closet or under the bed? One quick Consecration spell will clear the room.
- Go ahead -- play with matches! Just by being around her, you get +60 Fire Resistance.
- She could hook you up with some very cool Night Elf friends to bring for show and tell.
- She has a level 60 fishing skill, and her fishing pole is at the ready any time you want to drop everything and spend some downtime at the pond.
- She has personally met Greatfather Winter, which is a lot closer than I've ever been to Santa Claus.
- She would tell the greatest bedtime stories EVER. "Son, let me tell you about the time I was surrounded by murlocs..."
Let us know: What parenting responsibility would your WoW character handle better than you?
Ellen Henderson is a novelist and web strategist. She lives in Dallas, Texas, with her husband and son.
