At the end of April I wrote:
"Love is so much more than a single relationship. It is a manner of living and giving and, even receiving. It is something that should be the foundation of all we do. When we live a life full of love, we can find it easier to be hopeful. Let us drive out fear and erase hate. Let us live love and spread hope. Be. Live. Believe."
I feel as if resharing should be sufficient, and yet, I fell a stronger tug on my heart strings.
Let peace and love prevail.
I had a conversation with my children tonight. It was one I did not want to have. I hoped I would never have to have it. Then, the realization came that completely sheltering them is a disservice to them. Sheltering them does not protect them, or anyone. Rather, it potentially perpetuates this complicated world in which we live. And so, I sat down with them and we talked.
We discussed racism, hate, bullying, and oh so much more. My heart hurt. They have known that for days. My son has asked me repeatedly for days "what's wrong mommy? Mommy, what's wrong?" A few days ago, as I sobbed in the aftermath of the shootings in Dallas, I stated it simply. "I want a better world for you."
Tonight, that and another conversation evolved.
"Let's go color the sidewalk!" I exclaimed. They knew that there was more than an artistic surge. The sun had set, night had fallen.
"Mom, you have to stop reading the news," CD said.
"Mommy, what's going on? Tell us," added Miss Hollywood.
They do not understand why people are judged by the color of their skin, the clothes or uniform they wear, or anything superficial. They are six and nine. Of course they lack understanding. Of course, the hard part is that I, too, lack that understanding. I have likely put off very real discussions because I lack answers. When my children ask why someone was killed because of the color of their skin or the profession they hold, I find myself unable to answer.
"But police are good. They are there to protect us, mommy."
Tears filled their eyes. And mine.
Gauging from their responses, I know that I am doing things right. I am raising them well. But gauging from their responses, I have sheltered them.
"What if..." the questions were numerous.
And then we set out with chalk. We wrote messages of peace and love. CD finally expressed how he feels about bullies. The kid has experienced bullying himself. He struggles to understand, but rarely discusses it.
Where is the love? We cannot afford to lose sight of the necessity of peace and love. Infinite peace and love. Always. Forever. Peace. And love.
I ask you tonight to consider how you can spread peace and love in your lives. Because, we must live peace. We must live love. By doing so, we can spread both. We can ask for answers and encourage truth while supporting law enforcement. We can peacefully resolve to find good in the world. Let us go forth and spread peace and love. Love begins with me. Peace exists in my heart. I will do my part. Will you do yours?
In peace and love,
Bekah Rose
