Carefully Taught

 

https://unsplash.com/@good_citizen

 

"It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences." Audre Lorde

 

I have a new grandson, Otis. He is beautiful, unique and special. He sleeps peacefully, knowing nothing of difference, religion, hatred, disrespect, aggression, resentment or jealousy. He is totally innocent. Such things have to be taught and learnt. I know, however, that his parents will bring him up to be tolerant, accepting, fair, open-minded and loving. 

Click here to hear James Taylor singing "You've Got To Be Carefully Taught', from the musical 'South Pacific.'

Click here to hear Crosby Stills Nash and Young's 'Teach Your Children Well'.

Writing prompts:

• What qualities and values did your parents try to instil in you? Do you still have them? Write about this for six minutes.
• We are living through particularly turbulent and worrying times. Do you watch, or listen to the daily news? If so, how does it make you feel? Set a timer and write for six minutes.
• Write about a new-born baby you know, or have seen in the past.