Reply #4: Of all the things that encourage these atrocities to flourish in

[icnorth]

our world I think Arundhati Roy said it best: "flags are bits of colored cloth that governments use first to shrink-wrap people’s minds & then as ceremonial shrouds to bury the dead." A real patriot defends his government when it is right and condemns it when wrong.

As parents we can shield our kids to some extent but as they grow they need to be aware of the ugly as well as the good. When you explain be particularly aware of their ages and sensitivities and present your opinions at their level. When our girls had graduated and throwing off the shackles of parental oversight I had a situation happen of which I didn't approve and I said to them. Your mother and I no longer make decisions for you and cannot stop you from making the wrong ones, but never forget we prepared you by giving you the tools to make the right ones.

Being a parent is difficult, but you are the greatest influence in their lives. Lead by your words and example and your reward will be much in evidence down the road. And remember, you are not alone.