I work closely with a group of kids in an after school program. Through tutoring, recreation and mentoring. One sunny day on the playground, I hear coming up from behind me, "Mr. Cam!". From the sound of the child's voice I immediately knew who it was. I admit I responded rather annoyed, as this particular students sole purpose is to tattletale at any given opportunity. "Can I ask you a really important question?". "Suurre" I said rather sarcastically. (Considering a "really important question" to most children is usually 'are we getting oreos for snack today?'). "Do you think, maybe, you could be my dad?". My heart immediately fell into my shoes like it weighed 50 pounds and was tired of floating in my chest. An all too familiar question that I don't remember signing up being the spokesperson for. Now, I'd like to think that I'm a really cool guy and that alone is what peaked these little girls curiosity. But I couldn't push myself to think past the daunting reality. While these babies should be focusing on developing basic math skills, they're concerned more on filling a void in their life with the first man willing to accept the position. That to me was more of a pressing issue in both cases.
Now I'll be the first to admit that I don't know everything. My genius unfortunately doesn't span across all of life's arenas. Pertaining to these two separate, but very identical experiences, my ignorance climaxed like never before. I didn't know whether to blame the children's mothers for not redirecting their focus on other priorities. Or perhaps blame the fathers for obvious reasons. Not being the constant figure that these girls were yearning for. Or whether or not in my astonishment I could have done more to rectify their plight.
**This is a conundrum that I'll leave for you to dissect below.**
I do want to touch on the obvious truth here though. I was being watched! Whether I knew it, or even wanted to accept any ensuing responsibilities. Another person saw me and thought enough of me to place me in one of the highest positions in their life. Or at least inquire about it. We have to be extremely careful and strategic when it comes to how we choose to promote ourselves. What social norms are you condoning? What habits are you subconsciously passing down to these very impressionable children? Find those answers and fix them. And while this won't completely erase the ongoing struggle our children face. A system that is continually prepping them for a losing race. It most certainly is a step in the right direction.