The last few weeks have been challenging, even for your parents. With the recent tragedies involving Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, emotions are running high—people are hurt and weary, and the path to resolution feels unclear.
This situation may not be of your making, but it’s now part of your reality. Just like when you were little and learned to pick up your toys before dinner, it’s important to remember that fixing what’s broken is our collective responsibility. We are all in this together.
It saddens me that this is the world you have inherited. However, as you navigate through these difficult times, remember: we all see only a small piece of the vast world around us.
Think back to that time in the car when you pointed out how knowing just our family made you believe everyone had brown eyes, just because we do. You found it amusing how limited that perspective was. Adults sometimes fall into similar traps—our schools, places of worship, and neighborhoods can feel like insular bubbles. The world is much larger and more diverse, so keep your eyes open and learn from the experiences of others.
When someone shares their pain with you, believe them. Adults often forget how to truly listen. Everyone has their own struggles shaped by their unique experiences. Your role is to ease others’ suffering, regardless of the validity you assign to their pain. You don’t get to decide whose hurt matters more.
Remember that when someone asks for attention to their issue, don’t dismiss it simply because you have your own concerns. Consider the time we raised funds for children with Type 1 Diabetes. Imagine if I had interrupted a child sharing their story to talk about my thyroid issues—that would have been inconsiderate, wouldn’t it? Sometimes, it’s not about you; it’s about listening and learning from others’ struggles.
Everyone believes they are the “hero” in their own narrative. A wise professor once said, “Being right isn’t enough; you must also be wise.” While you may feel justified in your beliefs, remember that so does everyone else.
As a child, I watched a show about a dinosaur family that addressed war. The mother explained that “war” stands for “We Are Right.” This reflects a profound truth—being entrenched in one’s beliefs doesn’t change anything. To inspire change, you need to open hearts, not assign blame. There are no true villains, only individuals who may be hurting or misinformed. Your mission is to educate and heal.
When you witness unfair treatment, don’t remain silent. Speak up. You have both a voice and a heart—use them. If you see someone being excluded on the playground, invite them in. As you grow, challenge injustices in the workplace or anywhere else. This may be tough, as the desire for acceptance can be strong. But remember, silence can be seen as consent to the status quo.
Explore the world beyond your immediate surroundings. Expand your knowledge through reading and travel. Understanding the broader picture will help you identify and disrupt harmful patterns.
Always question what you see, even the beliefs held by your parents. Seek to understand the context and reasoning behind everything.
I believe in you, and I am hopeful that you will accomplish more than previous generations. The love I hold for you is the same unconditional love shared by every mother. Honor that love by treating every child with respect and kindness.
Love,
Your Mother
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In summary, you are entering a world filled with challenges, but you have the power to make a difference. By listening, learning, and acting with compassion, you can help create a better future for all.