“Are you worried?” This is the question that comes up repeatedly when people find out our 13-year-old daughter is heading to France for two weeks this summer. The inquiry often trails off as they search for the right way to imply “gun violence” or express anxieties about terrorism without sounding overly alarmist in casual conversation.
We, on the other hand, are left to respond with something akin to “Well, of course not.” (That phrase has a universal translation, by the way.) Truthfully, we’re concerned about our daughter every day. Whether she’s getting on the bus, trying out a fishing hook, racing down the stairs, walking back from a friend’s house, or heading to karate class, we experience that constant, low-level worry that every parent knows.
But as for her going overseas? Sure, we have some trepidation, much like the concern one has about being struck by lightning or encountering a jellyfish while swimming. (I’m 41, so jellyfish are definitely on my mind each summer.) Yet, she’s going regardless, because honestly, the idea of keeping her home to dodge the world’s problems sounds absurd. It’s almost humorous to think that the safest place for her is right here, in a country often riddled with its own issues.
We signed her up for the exchange program for two reasons: 1) the allure of summer in France, and 2) her enthusiasm. When her amazing French teacher presented the opportunity, she eagerly accepted, leaving my husband and me in awe. Our daughter is far more adventurous and courageous than I ever was at her age or even until my mid-twenties when I bravely tried sushi for the first time. This excitement for the unknown compelled us to sign the paperwork without hesitation.
While some ask if we’re scared, we mostly feel a twinge of jealousy. She’ll be in a picturesque town nestled in the Alps, surrounded by charming café-lined streets and breathtaking mountain views. Her school will be a small, close-knit community where students have been together since kindergarten. Her host family consists of delightful children who speak limited English but will hopefully welcome our daughter as the unique and endearing seventh-grader she is.
Of course, we’re concerned. We’ll be a bundle of nerves until we see her off at the airport. Yet, she’s not a globe-trotting adventurer looking for trouble; she just loves to explore. I’m sure France has its own version of Minecraft. But she’s determined to go, hoping to raise awareness against ignorance and fear that often permeates discussions among parents. (“Aren’t there immigration issues there?” one parent asked me, a stranger who felt comfortable linking my daughter’s trip to broader societal concerns, which were perhaps fueled by a certain political climate.)
We didn’t lack for anything significant in our upbringing, but international experiences weren’t on the table for us. My mom preferred staying close to home, and while it came from a place of love, it often felt limiting. We hope this experience teaches our daughter that the world is vast and accessible, and that privilege can open doors if navigated wisely. Ignorance breeds fear, and maybe someday we’ll be daring enough to send her younger brother on a similar adventure.
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In summary, while we have our concerns, we support our daughter’s adventurous spirit and believe that exposure to different cultures is invaluable. We hope this experience helps her grow and fosters understanding in a world where ignorance can often lead to fear.
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