The Detroit Lion's wide receiver, Calvin Johnson, caught a pass this past weekend and it was ruled that he didn't catch it because of some nonsensical rule. This caused the Lions to lose the game, and it got me mad. My 2-year old daughter saw me get mad (and vocalize it).
She had a scared look on her face then ran to give me a hug. Seeing this instantly calmed me down. I went from anger to guilt in an instant, and took on the task of explaining that it was events on the TV that was causing the reaction. The absurdity of sports fandom becomes apparent when you frighten a young child.
I also realized that this was the voice I need for certain situations in dealing with this little girl. It's very likely this voice will come naturally at some point, for something she does, but it hasn't happened yet. Toddlers tend to be blameless even in full rebellion. Their worst actions tend to be when they are unknowingly about to inflict damage on themselves (or a younger sibling).
In the meantime, it might be nice to be able to project this voice, occasionally, if it's warranted. Just not too much, or else it will lose effectiveness.
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