When a baby is born
there is no talk
of shields needed
to guard the soul.
Rather,
when a child is born
gentle words of welcome,
soft downy blankets,
and warmed milk are the order.
But,
when should we begin
to equip a child
for the harshness
of other children’s words?
the loneliness of rejection?
the sting of parental disapproval?
When is it time
to warn young girls
of male ill intentions?
Is there a good moment
to reveal
the earth’s scars
wrought by human hands?
Or
is it best
to stay swaddled and safe
for as long as possible?
*Inspired by No’u Revilla’s “When You Say Protesters Instead of Protectors”.
A Reading Life 
Ouch. There’s much to think about here. Your questions need answers, both for today and tomorrow, as each child grows. I’m leaning in to your last line – “…best to stay swaddled and safe for as long as possible.”
LikeLike
Oh this hit home! We just had that conversation with our daughter about her 6 year old. How do you raise an empathic child in a world as crazy as ours is right now. Thanks for putting words to these thoughts.
LikeLike
You bring up such an important question. As I future think, I fear raising a child in the current world. There have always been dangers abound, but access has never been quite so within reach. I miss the days when childhood innocence could last a bit longer than we see it last now.
LikeLike
That is a biggie in the world of questions. I have always been a fan of “natural consequences” taking the lead. Someone close having a baby? The facts of life have a reason to emerge. If someone does not make a team, then understanding the feeling of those decision seems to be a natural point of discussion. HOWEVER, much older and somewhat more savvy, I think that having the preemptive discussion in more important than ever in today’s world. Name calling and bullying and disappointment as well as meanness are at an all time peak in my opinion.
LikeLike
The magic of babies is the pure innocence they bestow on the scarred and damaged. Offering a lifetime of love and nurture is the best shield of all. You raise tough but necessary questions.
LikeLike