Updated: Oct. 26, 2016
Originally Published: Sep. 7, 2015
As I navigated through the news last week, I couldn’t help but reflect on the significant role mothers play in our society. The heartbreaking image of a 3-year-old boy named Samir washed ashore lingered in my mind—a visual that compels every part of us to shout, “This. Cannot. Happen.” Even before I became a mother, such a scene would have shattered my heart. But now, as a mother, it’s almost too painful to fathom. I wish I could say I can’t imagine it, but the truth is, I can. Every mother can. It’s our worst nightmare—the desperate effort to save our child, only to lose them.
However, we must recognize that this is not a new occurrence. Similar horrors have been unfolding across the globe for centuries. Countless innocent children have washed up on shores, and still, we find ourselves saying: This. Cannot. Happen. Yet, it does. It continues to happen.
When I dig deeper into the reasons behind this ongoing tragedy—examining the wars that displace families and the atrocities that claim innocent lives—I am reminded that mothers hold the key to breaking the cycle of war and violence. No one despises war more than mothers do, and throughout history, they have often been rendered powerless to stop it. Wars persist because men and women have never truly been equal—socially, politically, or in any other aspect. The moment women across the globe can unite and assert, “We are finished with sacrificing our children. We refuse to accept the senseless pursuit of power through violence,” that is when change will begin.
The path to extremism is birthed from ignorance and inequality, and mothers are the first educators of future generations. If women lack equal power and access to education, humanity suffers as a whole. Reflecting on the numerous wars fought throughout history, it becomes evident that most of these conflicts stem from aggressive, male-dominated power structures.
This isn’t a critique against men—I have great respect for men. Rather, it’s a condemnation of a system where half of humanity has been silenced while the other half makes decisions that lead to unchecked violence and chaos. My faith often compares humanity to a bird, with one wing representing men and the other women. When one wing is clipped, the bird can’t soar; it spirals aimlessly on the ground. This is what we are witnessing. This is why these tragedies keep occurring.
When I consider how I can contribute, I recognize the urgent needs of those currently suffering. Yet, when I step back and analyze the broader picture, the solution becomes clear: prioritizing the education and empowerment of women and girls is essential for lasting change.
“Imagine a son nurtured and guided for twenty years by a dedicated mother. She endures countless sleepless nights and anxious days! After guiding him through life’s dangers, how heartbreaking it is to consider sacrificing him to war. Mothers will not endorse war or be satisfied with it. Thus, when women fully and equally engage in global affairs—confidently entering the realms of law and politics—war will cease; women will become the barrier against it.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha, 1912
Samir is just one name among many. There are countless children lost to violence, and their stories remain untold. For every tragic image we see, there are thousands more that go unnoticed. This ongoing conflict has persisted for years, with thousands of casualties in places like my hometown of Riverton, which has experienced significant loss.
As you tuck your children into bed tonight, take a moment to envision this: you are holding your child tightly, attempting to shield them from the chaos of war, knowing deep down that your efforts may be in vain. You are doing your best to keep them safe, yet the reality is devastating. While you may feel grateful that this isn’t your immediate experience, remember that for many, this is a daily reality. For 22 million individuals, this is happening right now, or rather, it was, as 11 million have been forced to flee.
This is our reality. Our social media feeds are not filled with joyful moments but rather images of lost homes, and the faces of innocent children affected by conflict. Families are desperately trying to escape, struggling to find safety. We must ask ourselves: why is there such a lack of response? Why are governments turning their backs on those who are in dire need? The reasons behind these decisions may seem political, but they are ultimately inconsequential. What matters is that we must act. If a quarter of a million Americans were facing similar horrors, the reaction would undoubtedly be different. This is not merely an issue affecting certain groups; it is a humanitarian crisis that calls for our collective action.
If you feel compelled to help but are unsure how, remember that even small contributions can make a significant impact. Yasmin Kayali Sabra, a co-founder of a non-profit organization, emphasizes, “People often think they need to donate large sums, but even $50 a month can feed a family. Just $500 a year can provide education for a child. Every little bit helps.” They are not alone in this mission; check out Karam Foundation for further resources.
If you can’t donate, consider signing a petition urging the government to accept more refugees. For more information, visit this resource.
Mothers of the world, your voices are needed now more than ever.
Summary:
The piece reflects on the crucial role of mothers in advocating against war and violence. It emphasizes the need for women’s empowerment and education as a solution to ongoing global conflicts. The article highlights the personal stories of children affected by war and encourages readers to take action, whether through donations or petitions, to help those in need.