My three and four-year-old daughters go to preschool to learn their ABCs, to learn how to write, to learn our national anthem and perhaps most importantly, to learn how to show others kindness and respect. But one week ago, they added a new phrase to their vocabulary- code black.
Yes, code black- a bomb threat at MY daughters’ school. It’s the third threat to force evacuations at their Jewish preschool, as part of a series of threats made to other Jewish centers across our nation. It’s the third time my oldest says she was told to run. It’s the third time I received a text no parent should ever receive.
I wanted answers… especially from God.
Choosing Not to Remain Silent about Bomb Threats
At a prayer rally, the J director quoted Rabi Abraham Isaac Cook who said, “I don’t speak because I have the power to speak. I speak because I do not have the power to remain silent.” Those words echoed calls to
actions from our greatest leaders in history. Most importantly, they are a reflection of Christ’s call to help the poor, the ostracized and the suffering. It gave me some peace.
Identifying What Scares Me
Then Sunday in mass, the priest discussed an upcoming hike to the Appalachians and packing for the trip. His advice- think about what scares you the most. If you fear being cold, pack warmer clothes. If you fear being hungry, pack more food.
It was another answer- identify what scares me and fix it. For me, that’s fighting for the safety of my children and their ability to grow up in a world resembling Sesame Street- a beautiful, colorful world filled with diversity, love and respect.
Loving My Neighbors
As we go into Lent, I’m making a commitment to show more love to my neighbors, especially those who are suffering. I already have a few activities planned for the girls. In the coming weeks, I’ll tell you how this mom along with other parents and their pint-sized blessings are making a real difference.
