Today is Blog Action Day. And I can raise my voice on any subject I choose!
Dear Grandsons and Granddaughters:
Real men don’t denigrate women or other men. They don’t see them only as objects of their own needs and desires. They don’t feel entitled to impose their will on others. Grown women don’t willingly throw themselves on the altar of abuse for the sake of popularity or fame. So please don’t believe what you see on television and social media. Don’t design your behavior and life path based on the actions of those in the news.
Yes, we have a plethora of celebrities who seem to think that the gift of media attention is to gratify themselves at all costs. Yes, we have movies and entertainment that somehow create laughter and admiration for men and women who objectify and demean others. Yes, there are disturbing numbers of women and girls who seem to accept these behaviors and attitudes from those in the public eye and those in their private lives as the norm. And, yes, we have a presidential candidate and a past president who believe in taking what they want without respect for others or regard for consequences – but don’t fall for that line. It may be the spoils fame and fortune – but will not give you peace, happiness, and good fortune.
Stand up – dear grandchildren.
Expect what is right and do what is right.
Earn respect and give it to others.
Love and be loved.
Be gentle, be open, be caring, be kind.
Give and receive joy and pleasure in equal measures.
Look past the media to your own role models. Watch your fathers and mothers and aunts and uncles. See the love and nurturing that goes into successful relationships. Notice the path may not be easy but which gives the reward of growing and maturing with the ones you love. Observe your legacy – the ability to shoulder responsibility for your actions and to strive for authenticity.
xxoo
Bravo! I hope that these words go to receptive ears and are acted upon.
As an aside, what a spectacle that is unfolding in your part of the world. Do either parties realise the damage that is being done to the country?
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I hope so, too, Ramana. Watching the news right now is a sickening experience. Hard to think of this as leadership, isn’t it?
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I sent this to Miyako and Seiji!
On Sun, Oct 16, 2016 at 9:18 AM, A Letter to my Children wrote:
> Talk to me…I’m your Mother posted: “Today is Blog Action Day. And I can > raise my voice on any subject I choose! Dear Grandsons and Granddaughters: > Real men don’t denigrate women or other men. They don’t see them only as > objects of their own needs and desires. They don’t feel entitled ” >
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Thanks, Karen. One hopes…
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