The kids, my dad and I went to a matinée yesterday.  It was one of those intense movies, based on true events, about the Iran hostage crisis.   There were many critical and tense moments in this movie, and it reminded me of how fragile the world really is.  It also raised the larger question for all of us: how did it happen that we were fortunate enough to be born here and experience all that we are able to experience?

This wasn’t a feel good conversation nor was it depressing. It was simply a conversation that led us to talking about religion, hatred, treatment of citizens across the globe, privilege, freedom and what part they can play in changing the world.  The kids had to step outside themselves for the conversation – something difficult for teenagers (and some adults we know as well!).

Honestly, I don’t have much to say about this other than the discussion was enlightening (and at times overwhelming as the topic is difficult to grasp).  We discussed how amazing it is that we were born in the United States and how lucky we are to have the means to go to school, to college, to vote, to buy groceries – sometimes whatever we want at the grocery store, etc.!  All things that are easy to take for granted.

Look, they go to a private school.  For years, I have been telling them that it is a privilege to be at this school, with these amazing teachers, parents and friends.  I never really knew if they got it.  I worried (I worry about a lot of things!) that they missed what an opportunity they have, and sometimes I know they do miss these things  … they are young humans after all!  However, yesterday, after our conversation, I realized that the mantra, the feeling, the compassion, the understanding — it’s inside them, sometimes hidden, but it’s all there.  As parents, that’s what we hope for.

Have a great (and warm) start to the week!