Despite our advancements, humanity still struggles to coexist peacefully. People inflict pain on one another for reasons that often elude us. As parents, we must confront this unsettling reality, especially for children like my son, Lucas, who grapples with anxiety.
Lucas wears his heart on his sleeve, often overwhelmed by emotions during even light-hearted moments. His sensitivity is a beautiful trait that allows him to empathize deeply with others, yet it also makes him more vulnerable to the world’s harsh realities. My instinct as a mother is to shield him from such pain—an instinct that was put to the test when news of a tragic event broke recently.
Upon hearing about the horrific incident in Orlando, my first thought was to protect Lucas’s innocence. I dreaded the thought of endless tears and sleepless nights filled with anxiety. Parenting through such situations can be exhausting, and I questioned if I could handle it.
However, Lucas soon heard details from an older child, prompting him to seek answers from me, his trusted confidante. I was tempted to deflect his questions, to downplay the situation, but I realized that the truth matters. It was essential for him to understand the gravity of the event and the world he is growing up in—a world where people often face violence based on their identities.
I want Lucas to be prepared for this future. I want him to learn that love, acceptance, and equality are not just ideals to talk about, but principles to act upon. I want him to understand the importance of bravery, the value of pride, and the power of kindness. He must know that it’s okay to feel wronged and that we do not need to remain silent about injustice.
So, we sat down to discuss it—openly and honestly. I explained that the pain inflicted by one person affects us all. This is not just a fight for some; it is a challenge for everyone. We must do better, together.
Here are some ways we can guide our children in processing tragedies like the one in Orlando and empower them to help:
- Educate Yourself
Stay informed not just about specific events, but about the broader social issues at play. Understanding the LGBTQ community and its struggles is essential. It’s not enough to claim allyship based on personal connections; we must actively learn and grow. - Engage in Dialogue
Discuss not just the events, but the underlying struggles for safety, acceptance, and respect. Your children should feel they can trust you with their questions, even if it means confronting uncomfortable truths. If you’re hesitant to explain complex topics, start with the basics—love, equality, and empathy. - Focus on What Matters
Avoid getting sidetracked by irrelevant discussions or judgments about others’ lifestyles. Use these moments to teach valuable lessons about compassion and understanding. - Encourage Generosity
Lucas understands the impact of giving. He chose to donate his birthday money to support those affected, demonstrating that even small contributions can make a difference. If you want to help, consider contributing to organizations focused on healing and support. - Promote Love over Hate
Together, Lucas and I brainstormed ways to express solidarity and love. He created art to convey his support, emphasizing the importance of community and connection. I encourage you to join us by creating symbols of love, like hearts or flags, and sharing them with the hashtag #ChooseLoveProject. The more we spread kindness, the stronger the message that love prevails over hate.
In conclusion, it’s essential to prepare our children to live in a world that often feels chaotic and unjust. By fostering open discussions, instilling values of love and acceptance, and encouraging active participation in positive change, we can help them navigate these challenges with resilience and hope. If you’re interested in additional insights, check out this blog post on intracervicalinsemination.com which offers valuable information. For those considering home parenting options, Make a Mom provides excellent resources. Lastly, for guidance on pregnancy and insemination, explore Progyny, an invaluable resource.