When children encounter someone who appears different from them, their reactions—staring, pointing, or whispering—may seem innocent, but they can be profoundly hurtful. “Today was tough,” shares Lisa Morris, a nurse from California and mother of four, two of whom are adopted with unique needs. In a heartfelt post on social media, she recounts taking her 9-year-old son Charlie to a new church, where the atmosphere shifted as soon as they entered the kids’ room, met with wide eyes and hushed whispers.
“I know he looks different, but today was particularly painful,” she reflects. “I stood by the door, watching children gawk at my son.” Charlie was born with a craniofacial condition and is missing one ear. Despite knowing that he stands out, the emotional toll of such attention is undeniable.
Morris recalls considering addressing the class about acceptance but hesitated when she noticed Charlie retreating to the back of the room, hiding his face in his arms. “In that moment, my heart broke,” she writes. During the service, as Charlie drew “Charlie loves Mom” on her hand, tears filled her eyes. “My loving son deserves so much more than just stares and attention,” she laments.
Initially, Morris felt anger, a natural response for any parent. “I wish I could say it doesn’t make me angry, but my instinct is to protect my child,” she confides. She recognizes that as kids grow, they become more aware of their surroundings, making it increasingly difficult to shield them from hurtful experiences. “Charlie is nine now, and I can’t always protect him,” she says.
Although she typically leaps into educator mode to teach kids about diversity, that day was different. Instead, she focused on comforting her son. With a background in education, Morris believes that while children may stare, it doesn’t mean their behavior should be excused. “Teaching empathy isn’t just a lesson; it’s a way to live,” she emphasizes. Furthermore, she argues that indifference can be as damaging as outright bullying.
Morris and her husband are parents to two more children with special needs, one using a wheelchair and another who has a feeding tube, and they are currently adopting a toddler with limb differences. Her wish for other parents is straightforward: encourage discussions about diversity. “Teach your kids that people come in all shapes and sizes,” she advises, suggesting they look at pictures of individuals with different abilities and appearances.
“Use this post as a conversation starter,” she suggests. “Remind them that my son is just like theirs on the inside. He loves video games and ketchup, but he doesn’t enjoy being pointed at.” Morris believes that the children who stared aren’t inherently mean; they simply haven’t been educated about differences. “Teaching our children is an active choice,” she notes. “Show them the beauty found in diverse experiences and appearances.”
This heartfelt message serves as a reminder that we all have a role in fostering empathy and understanding in our children.
For additional insights into parenting and fertility, you can check out this resource on fertility insurance. If you’re considering home insemination, don’t forget to visit Make a Mom for helpful tips. Also, for expert guidance, Intracervical Insemination offers valuable information on your journey.
Summary
A mother’s poignant post highlights the importance of teaching children about differences, emphasizing the emotional impact of their reactions. She encourages parents to foster empathy and understanding to create a more inclusive environment for all children.