memoir, adoption
Skip to content

Because it’s Tuesday–Powerlessness and the Tragedy in Boston

by Laura on April 16th, 2013

 

This morning my son had a significant temper tantrum because … it’s Tuesday.

He wanted it to be Wednesday, as that’s the morning I teach dance class at school. Alas, I cannot change what day it is. It’s not within my, admittedly vast, mommy powers.

When I think about the explosions at the Boston Marathon, I want to have a significant meltdown. There is not much I can do, except express my sincere condolences and wonder … why? Why do these shitty things have to happen and I can’t do anything about it. Why can’t today be Wednesday?

I don’t have answers, I don’t even have an all-knowing god to pray to and find comfort in. (Before anyone gets all riled up, it’s not like I go around actively denying god’s existence … I just don’t know.)

What I do have is my little life with my little family, and the same little problems I had yesterday.

I can only control so much.

People keep on circulating that quote from Mr. Rogers

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

To this day, especially in times of ‘disaster,’ I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers – so many caring people in this world.

Very true and comforting words. Gotta love that Mr. Rogers.

But … I will be taking this a step further.

I will try to be a helper.

I will teach my kids to be helpers. Yes, kids can be helpers, too–not necessarily in disasters, but what about everyday life? … When they see someone getting bullied and stand up for him. When they see a lost child at the mall (which happened to us just the other day) and help her find her momma.

Today is Tuesday, and tomorrow, my son will get his wish. It will be Wednesday, and all will be right in his world.

If only it was truly that easy, especially for those touched by the tragedy in Boston.

 *  *  *  *  *

“Feet Of Runner In Evening Light” by Sura Nualpradid and “Aerial View Of Boston At Sunset” by puttsk from freedigitalphotos.net

Share
11 Comments
  1. Look for the helpers, be a helper, teach the children to be helpers. I love it. Perhaps this is the path out of the mess the world is in.

    These are words to live by, thank you.

    • Laura permalink

      Prudence–A little late in getting responses up to the comments, sorry! … Yes, I have to try to think positively … Laura

  2. Lovely perspective, Laura.

  3. Hi Laura, Thanks for offering a glimpse of hope and consolation in the wake of such a senseless and tragic event. Mr Rogers has taught us all about kindness.

  4. Thanks for sharing the inspirational perspective, Laura!

  5. Great post. We are powerless and can only do what we can do. I love your analogy of your son's meltdown. I doubt it was fun to live through it but what a lesson for all of us.

  6. Laura, I really, really like this. If it'd be OK with you, I'd love to share your image on my Facebook page :)

  7. In any tragedy, it is always those who help selflessly who touch my heart. Tonight I read the stories of some who helped in Boston with tears and prayers. Your post is a great reminder that each of us has an opportunity to be a helper each and every day. Thanks for this thoughtful post.

    • Laura permalink

      Becky — Yes, I agree. It's amazing how the people of Boston have just pulled together.

  8. Thank you very much for the information great post, found it on Yahoo.I am very lucky to get this tips from you.his is the best weblog for anyone who wants to know about this subject.

  9. Souvent utilisée dans une cuillère à soupe suffit à couvrir leurs besoins en protéines.
    spiruline avis forum recently posted..spiruline avis forumMy Profile
    spiruline avis forum recently posted..spiruline avis forumMy Profile

Leave a Reply

Note: XHTML is allowed. Your email address will never be published.

Subscribe to this comment feed via RSS

CommentLuv badge

Notify via Email Only if someone replies to My Comment