Difficult and Important Conversations

We have always tried to be open and transparent with our children about current events we felt they were ready to hear about and understand. We’ve always wanted them to hear about topics such as sex, pornography and race from us first, so that when they encounter those conversations they aren’t shocked and they have a foundation. Given the make-up of our family, race and slavery is something we’ve been talking about for years. As we’ve served in the inner city through missions and shelters, Leila has asked questions about why so many of those that we serve look like her. We answer honestly and in a way her mind can understand. 

These last few weeks we’ve had a lot of conversations and prayed a lot for healing, reconciliation, peace and that all would know and believe each person and life is valuable. A few days ago, we drove down Monument Avenue with my mom and the kids. We warned them of the language they would read and discussed why people are angry. We talked about the freedoms we have to express our opinions and speak up against wrongs. We shared our beliefs on the right way to protest and the perils of violent protesting that have hurt businesses and lives. We discussed how heart change will be the real catalyst for transformation in our world. 

That evening we talked more about the wrongs of slavery and tried to help our daughter’s mind be at ease. We affirmed our equal love for her and Benaiah and our belief in God’s purpose in their lives. We don’t have all the answers, but we’re willing to keep listening and learning and being available to them for their fears and questions.

Her response at the monument was to recite Psalm 23, so we did. She wanted to make a poster that brought hope and put it near a statue, so this is what she came up with. She is brave and becoming a strong young, black woman that loves Jesus and therefore, loves people.