When Terror Strikes...
/Our hearts go out to the city of Boston, amidst the aftermath of the bombing at the Patriot Day Boston Marathon. Our supportive thoughts go out to all of those affected by this tragedy, and we hope for speed in the investigation efforts for this event. We want to list some suggestions for opening discussions about this unfortunate event... all we can do is keep healthy discussions going to ensure that we as a country know how to respond when terror strikes.
How to talk to your kids: Let your kiddos know it's okay to ask about this type of event, and thank them for asking. Be honest; let your children know the objective facts about the event. Try to prevent over-thinking these types of events, and remind your children that they are safe.
How to talk to other adults: Be open to discussions regarding emotional reactions to this type of event. Acts of terror have happened over the decades, and it needs to be safe for adults to correspond about their personal connection to other tragic events. Try to use this type of event to build sense of community, and country-wide awareness as we seek to support one another in moving through these types of experiences.
Anywhere in the world, terror can strike at any point. Let's not use this as a reason to be overly fearful all the time. It's been great to hear about the overwhelming courage and support of the first responders in Boston (volunteers, police and firefighters, medical professionals, and helping bystanders). If we can choose to focus on this as a country, it feels pretty good to be American.
----- Hannah & Ginger