A Letter in Uncertain Times

To my beautiful children,

There is so much going on in the world right now it literally hurts my heart. This past week there has been so much injustice it's even hard for adults to comprehend. Another black man killed by a white police officer. Not the first and, deep down, I know it won't be the last. It was an act of senselessness- a man held down with a knee to the neck cutting off his airway while he repeated, "I can't breathe".  No reason, no resistance, no evidence of a crime committed (alleged use of a $20 counterfeit bill).  Senseless.  Around the world, there has been people protesting.  Individuals of all race and creed, representing their beliefs and anger, all within their right to do so. Then we have the rioters and the looters.  People aggressively throwing items at police officers, setting fires to cop cars and police precincts, breaking storefront windows and stealing whatever they can get their hands on. Downtown Atlanta and NYC have been covered in vulgar graffiti and disrespectful comments about those that spend their days risking their lives to protect ours. Sadly, the old adage, "One bad apple spoils the barrell" is what is coming into play here.  Yes, there are bad police officers in the world and anger against them, rightly so, but many are now taking this out on the group as a whole.  I understand their anger and empathize with it but I can't condone these actions. We are full of disgust, fear, and even hopelessness at times due to current situations.

As parents, our goal is to raise you as caring, compassionate, empathetic, and responsible individuals. We have taught you the value of treating people respectfully. We have held numerous open conversations about current events hoping to help you gain a understanding of right and wrong. We have explained to you as a Jewish being, you may be judged based solely on your religion.  We have emphasized how racism and prejudice in any way, shape, or form is not acceptable and to stand for what you believe.

There are so many things wrong in this world and it is my hope you both do your part to help make things right. Always be proud of who you are, where you come from, and know that you are a valued human being.

Love, Mom