Fear

We had a Family Home Evening last night and somehow, the conversation was steered to this story. The kids had heard snippits off of the radio and on the tv, and have even seen it in our newspaper.

I hate that I had to try to explain it to them.
I can't explain it to myself.

We taught them about stranger-danger, what to do if they are approached, reviewed our phone numbers and address,

and then gave them hugs because they were scared.

I found myself telling them if this were to happen, you need to know what to do because mom and dad can't be with you all the time to protect you. There may come a time when you will have to take care of yourself, by yourself.

A horrible thing to say to a young child.

But true.

We have to give them everything they need to be safe from the ugliness of the world in every way.

That's my job.