Recently, Donald Trump made headlines for mocking his rival, Governor John Kasich, over his eating habits, stating, “This guy takes a pancake, and he’s shoving it in his mouth. It’s disgusting. Do you want this guy for your president?” This kind of behavior raises serious concerns, especially for those of us with children who have special needs.
As a parent of three boys, I often find myself navigating their interactions, reminding them that kindness and respect matter more than winning an argument. “Don’t touch him. I don’t care what he said. That language is unacceptable,” I often find myself saying. In a world where words like “stupid” and the R-word are still thrown around, I recognize the importance of teaching my sons about the power of language and compassion.
I also have a 14-year-old daughter with autism, and I strive to instill in my boys the understanding that, in different times, their sister might have been labeled with the R-word and marginalized by society. Sadly, it seems that echoes of such attitudes persist today, particularly in our political discourse.
This election cycle is the first that my sons are truly engaged with, and while I initially thought it would be a great learning opportunity, I find myself struggling to keep them from being discouraged by the negativity. As their mom, I can’t be a referee to Trump’s antics while also managing the household. Instead, I redirect their attention to more positive role models.
For instance, during a recent sports broadcast, I was grateful to see Jordan Spieth speak about how his sister with developmental disabilities keeps him grounded and focused on what truly matters. Moments like these remind us of the importance of empathy and class, especially in the public eye.
Words matter. They shape how our children perceive the world and each other. As we navigate the complexities of raising children in today’s society, it’s vital to emphasize empathy and understanding. For insights into pregnancy and home insemination, you can check out this excellent resource from the World Health Organization. Additionally, if you’re interested in more about home insemination kits, visit this link for an authority on the topic.
In summary, the way we communicate and the examples we set can either build up or tear down. It’s our responsibility to foster kindness, especially in a world that often seems to lack it.