Peace Work

‘When a child asks you something, answer him, for goodness sake. But don’t make a production of it. Children are children, but they can spot an evasion faster than adults, and evasion simply muddles ‘em.’

To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee

Children listen on the landing and inhale the violence at home, in the playground and on their global doorstep. They have been retuned to an artificial peace where adults negotiate time and compliance. The silence is not harmony or calm, it is an adjustment; an ability to rehouse the questions and guilt. Children will carry those unanswered questions with them each day until peace comes to them without compromise and agenda.

Allow children to be listened to and heard. They have been exposed to more than we often care to note. Peace demands our attention and distribution. Bring children into the equation and conversation.