A thing has happened and people are asking how they are going to talk to their kids about it. Other people are saying that's a dumb question. I hope the second set of people take a moment and speak humbly if and when their child asks them a question.
Kids listen to more than you think. They hear words and interpret them in their minds. Because of some of these things that they've heard and interpreted, they may think that some of their friends are going to be sent away. They may have questions about the stability of their family structure, should it happen to not be 'traditional'. Again, they are asking these questions because of things that were actually said.
Children are so important and my own children mean more to me than anything describable. It's hard as a parent to see your children have to ask difficult and confusing questions and it makes me sad to know there is worry in their hearts.
However you decide to answer these questions, make sure they are guided with love and kindness and logic. Even if things seem chaotic and unfair, it is survivable. Life is full of moments that are chaotic and unfair, on different scales at different times. This can be an opportunity to nurture, to comfort, and to educate with a foundation of compassion and respect. Remember that they will encounter, just as you have, moments throughout their lives that are shockingly disturbing and that make no sense. So make sure you give them the strength and knowledge to help those that need help, have a strong moral and respectful core, and to do so with kindness. This will help them make good decisions, be a strong support system for their friends, peers, and loved ones, and it will help them endure hard times and advocate for better ones.
I take comfort in knowing I'm either too naive to notice the hatred in the people close to me, or more likely, I've purged the hatred (see post) and have successfully surrounded myself with people that promote and demonstrate love and acceptance. There is no room for hate and it is counter-productive and ineffective and a waste of energy and emotion. Unless you have walked in someone else's shoes you can have NO idea what it feels like to experience something they may have.
And on that note I leave you with three thoughts:
- I still love and respect this country and I am very proud to be an American despite the unsettled feeling in my gut.
- Just because you are a Christian does not mean you have to be a Republican. Seriously this drives me crazy. Think independently.
- Eat that turkey, all night long. Fifty million Elvis fans can't be wrong. Yes, it's that time of year. FOOD! :)
Human as to human
The future is no place
To place your better days
The future is no place
To place your better days
~ djm
