As part of a global family, and being one of the community of parents that spans our Earth, I can’t help but wonder in the wake of the US election:

What kind of future world do I want for my Love Bug?

I know what kind of world I don’t want her to grow up in. With every fibre of my being I know the answer to that. So, how do we make sure the future of our children is not sullied by all of the things we don’t want?

Dear America:
Keep teaching your children LOVE.
Teach them kindness.
Teach them compassion.
Teach them understanding.
Teach them friendship.
Teach them consideration.
Teach them loyalty.
Teach them their value.
Teach them about climate change.
Teach them that one person can change the world.
Teach them that they can make a difference.
Teach them hope.
Teach them the importance of community.
Teach them to be positive and to look for the silver lining.
Teach them to be curious.
Teach them to question the status quo.
Teach them they can do anything.
Teach them to be engaged.
Teach them acceptance.
Teach them gratitude.
Teach them tenacity.
Teach them to be safe. And to protect what they love.
Teach them dedication.
Teach them empathy.
Teach them grace.
Teach them that their actions have consequences.
Teach them that they matter.
Teach them dignity.
Teach them to be inclusive.
Teach them that we are all equal.
Teach them respect. For themselves and others.
Teach them that they will fall down.
Teach them how to get back up again.
Teach them conviction.
Teach them that there is no Plan B for our planet, so we all need to look after it and all of the critters we share it with. Every one of us holds this responsibility.
Teach them to speak out against wrong.
Teach them how to disagree with love and respect.
Teach them to be brave.
Teach them how to argue without fighting.
Teach them to be strong and proud being their whole self.
Teach them that they are enough.
As Hillary says: teach them that we are stronger together.
Teach them that love is LOVE.

Teach them all of these things by showing them.

I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children’s laughter remind us how we used to be

And if, by chance, that special place
That you’ve been dreaming of
Leads you to a lonely place
Find your strength in love

{Today, more than any in recent memory, think about the truth in those words. The Greatest Love of All, Whitney Houston.}