I Broke My Kid's New Phone on Purpose

So, here's the thing. My kid, Alex, they're 25 now, got their first phone when they were just a teen and never looked back. Fast forward to today, and they decided it was time for an upgrade, bought this fancy new iPhone that I'm sure costs more than my car. I've always been a bit protective of my kid's stuff, I guess because I want them to be careful with their things. But this phone? It's the size of a credit card and as thin as a pancake. How are you supposed to hold on to something so delicate? One night, after they went to bed, I couldn't resist the temptation anymore. I put it in my pocket and started to walk around the house normally. Then I made sure to trip over some old magazines in the hallway, dropping the phone as if by accident. It was pretty funny at first because I pretended like nothing happened, just picked up the shattered glass with a sigh and said something about how clumsy I am. Alex was not happy when they found out, of course. They had to go through all the hassle of getting it replaced and dealing with insurance. But you know what? The funny thing is that ever since then, Alex has become more careful with the new phone, even bought a case and screen protector. So maybe there's something to be said for teaching lessons through... unconventional methods. Am I an asshole for doing this? Maybe. Am I proud of it too? Absolutely.