Jake is a little old man and Henry, who recently moved in with him, is very young – so young that he has not yet figured out how to look manly when he does his business.
Jake has not been happy at all about his new housemate and was, more or less, incensed upon Henry’s arrival. It is true that Jake was not consulted. His previous housemate [Jill, see August 1 installment of Macon Traditions at www.maconsense.org] had passed after a long and happy life and there was, indeed, room at the inn. Still, Jake would have appreciated being asked for his input. He has made that known in many nonverbal ways.
Henry is three times Jake’s size, and you’d think that would be intimidating, but Jake holds his own. If push comes to shove, Jake resorts to violence. Unfortunately, Henry is a slow learner and has yet to develop quitting sense.
Jake’s previous housemate was motherly and tolerant. She put up with many antics that should have guaranteed her a place in the Big Sister Hall of Fame. She never made Jake pay for his many aggravations. Among other things, she taught him to be afraid of thunder and to wait until there was no chance of getting a treat before eating his regular food.
Despite Henry’s youth and size advantage, he looks to Jake for advice and companionship. Sometimes Jake is agreeable and sometimes Henry sees Jake’s dark side. Jake does not prefer or cherish Henry’s company. Many times, he waits outside the door to see which way Henry is going before entering the house himself.
I’ll have to agree that Henry has no manners, but he is working on them. He is excited and excitable at the arrival of guests or even his parents. His enthusiasm manifests itself in jumping and snapping, much to the chagrin of his mom and dad. Jake is so overpowered by the display that he stands back and listens to the admonishments and threats, knowing he wants no part of that.
Someday Henry will be a good boy, but that day has yet to come. On the other hand, Jake is a good boy who has been taught many lessons. Karma may be involved.