Humanity has long struggled to coexist peacefully. It’s a perplexing reality, one that often involves people inflicting pain on others for reasons that baffle most of us. As parents, this harsh truth is something we must grapple with, especially when raising sensitive kids like my youngest, who experiences anxiety.
This boy can barely get through an episode of his favorite singing competition without bursting into tears over the backstories. His empathy is refreshing, but it makes him vulnerable to hurt and disappointment from the world around him. Naturally, my instinct is to shield him from all the negativity — after all, that’s what mothers do.
So, when the devastating news of the Orlando tragedy hit my feed, my first thought was to protect him from the details. I wanted to preserve his innocence at just 8 years old. And honestly, I was dreading the emotional fallout that could ensue, the sleepless nights filled with anxiety. It can be exhausting being a parent in such times, and I questioned my own readiness to tackle it.
Then, of course, he overheard something from an older child, who only shared the sordid and often inaccurate details of the event. This prompted him to come to me, his most trusted confidante, with questions. I confess, I considered giving him a vague distraction, downplaying the situation, and telling him not to worry. But I knew deep down that this was a significant issue, and he absolutely should be concerned.
Children are the ones who will inherit a world where love can lead to violence. They will witness tragedies far too often while we sit back and lament without seeking change. I want my son to be prepared for this future. I want him to understand that his mother not only advocates for love, acceptance, and equality but also stands up for them.
Here’s how we can guide our children in processing the Orlando tragedy and empower them to make a difference:
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about current events, but also dig deeper into understanding the LGBTQ community. It’s not enough to just say, “I have a gay friend.” We need to be informed advocates. Take time to learn the terminology and nuances so your children can understand and empathize — it’s an ongoing journey, and resources like Medical News Today offer valuable insights.
- Talk About It: Engage in conversations not just about the tragedy but about broader themes like the value of human life, safety, and acceptance. Kids can often handle more than we assume. Instead of shying away from sensitive topics, discuss love, equality, and kindness.
- Avoid Irrelevant Discussions: Don’t let this tragedy turn into a chance to criticize others. Focus on teaching and healing instead.
- Give: My son recognizes that sometimes, financial support can make a difference. He offered to donate his leftover birthday money to charities supporting victims of the tragedy. It’s empowering for kids to know their contributions matter. If you’re interested in giving too, check out Make a Mom for more info.
- Spread Love, Not Hate: We brainstormed ways for kids to express their support creatively. My son drew heartfelt pictures and came up with slogans to share. We encourage others to join in by making symbols of love and posting them with #ChooseLoveProject. Spreading kindness can counteract hate and show that we all deserve love.
Ultimately, my son hopes for a world filled with love and less hatred. As parents, we have the power to instill these values in our children, guiding them to be compassionate and brave in the face of adversity.
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Summary
Teaching our children to embrace love and kindness is crucial in a world where hate exists. Open conversations about tragedies, educating ourselves, and encouraging acts of kindness can empower kids to make a positive impact.