World News

Be aware of the images you are beaming onto your young child's consciousness. If you want news of the tragedy turn on the radio, it's less intrusive. If your child has already seen the chilling images of destruction, help him come up with another image of beauty to replace it. When he is trying to fall asleep, his movie projector mind can choose to substitute the horrifying scene with the calm image he has created.

Older children may find information to be empowering. My 14-year old daughter said, "Knowledge is power Mom and it helps me to learn all the facts I can." In this case, co view and discuss what you are witnessing on the news.

Use candles as a concrete way to symbolize your efforts to send light to those who need it now. Perhaps you want to give each candle a specific intention. Light a candle and pray for the victims and families touched by this trauma. Light another candle for rescue workers, doctors, fire fighters, and all those who are working to make our lives safe and repair the damage. Your child might like to designate the third candle. She may wish to pray for those people who caused this horrific act of violence, that spirit might fill them and help them see that painful action is not a choice.

Don't forget mealtime prayers and the rituals of your everyday lives. Kids cling to the comforting rhythm of the ordinary during times of stress.

Ask open-ended questions and make time to listen without distractions.

Expect questions such as "How could anyone kill in the name of God?" "Who is this Allah that they are killing for?" Then honestly respond with your own grief, your own horror over the beautiful image of God being used in hate.

Your young children may have fears during the night. Set up a sleeping bag on the floor of your bedroom and let your child know she can snuggle in if she feels afraid.

A 15 year old I know felt so helpless the day of the tragedy until she took action, however small. She hung her families American flag outside and then purchased yards of red white and blue ribbon to drape across their front fence.

Encourage your kids to do whatever might make them feel in control -- make red, white, and blue yarn bracelets for their classmates; ribbons to wear to school; put American flag stickers on their notebooks.

Make an appointment to donate blood next week or the week after. Your kids could come up with something to give the blood donors and volunteers such as a box of cookies, a jug of juice, or magazines and books. There are lots of kids waiting while their parents give blood. They'd love to read something or play with some old toys. Go to http://www.redcross.org/ or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE for details on other ways you can contribute.

I've also heard that the rescue dogs in NYC are in need of some assistance. You and your kids can send shampoo, towels, dog boots as their feet are being cut by all the glass, or monetary donations clearly identifying the packages as Rescue Dog Supplies to:

New York City Offices
c/o Search and Response
Chambers Street
New York, NY 10007

Call your local airport or hotel near the airport and ask if you might bring toys and books to any families stranded there. Imagine how grateful they will be.

Perhaps you could get together with your neighbors, church group, or child's class and have some a bake sale to raise money for rescue workers. The city of New York is accepting contributions to aid the families of Police, Fire, EMS, and other City employees involved in rescue efforts. Make your check or money order payable to:

NYCPPI
The City of New York
100 Church Street, 20th Floor
New York, NY 10007

Join me in sending light and prayers to all the children whose lives will never be the same--children who have lost parents and other loved ones.

We can join hands, however far apart we are, and let our kids know we are linked in love not hate.

Copyright 2001, Mimi Doe.
All rights reserved.

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Mimi Doe is the author of:
- 10 Principles For Spiritual Parenting (HarperCollins)
- Drawing Angels Near (Pocket Books)
- Busy But Balanced: Practical and Inspirational Ways to Create Closer, Calmer Families (St. Martin's Press, Fall 2001)
- The SpritualParenting.com website, where you may sign up for her free newsletter.
Mimi may be reached via email at Editor@SpiritualParenting.com.
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