"You Have To Be Carefully Taught."

CONVERSATIONS WITH MY MOTHER

You Have To Be Carefully Taught.

May 8, 2021

Filomena Sez

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"You Have To Be Carefully Taught."

Often, as I explored my world in early childhood which consisted of a few city blocks. I would share my latest adventure or discovery with My Mother. This day she was standing at the kitchen sink washing dishes with her back to me. It was her style to continue with her task during our conversations. So that the lessons learned became a natural part of my everyday life.

Did you have lunch at the Smith’s today? Now my five-year-old mind started searching. How did she know and why? What? What? What? Did you bring the other children from the neighborhood with you? Yes, to both was my reply. The other children’s parents called me. They were upset. Upset over what! What did I do wrong? She never stopped washing the dishes conveying to me the unimportance of their phone calls.

Well you must have noticed that the Smiths have a different color skin. Yea, so? Well some people do not like them because of that. What???? Are you telling me that people do not like other people because of the color of their skin? Yes. Her response wrapped in complete disapproval. Now, she turned towards me without missing a single beat and looked straight into my eyes. Please continue to play with the Smith children and go to their home and bring them here for play and meals. Just do not bring the other children from the neighbored with you.

Okay, Mom! I shouted. As I went running off feeling comfortable, secure, and more important enlightened. I did nothing wrong and the color of a person’s skin meant nothing. That conversation resonates everyday of my life in my mind, heart and soul. That day my Mother gave me a great gift! The courage and freedom to fully embrace and respect difference. You see. We do have to be carefully thought. It is just that simple. Thanks Mom. I am so proud to be Margie’s Daughter………margiesdaughter.com