Thursday, May 27, 2010

Already

I'm not one of those bloggers that talks about hot topics, politics, etc.  My blog is a simple telling of my family, my kids, school, my life, and that's about it.  But recently a "hot topic" has been smacking me in the face.

Racism.

As you know, we are rapidly approaching the day when we will be bringing a new baby into our home.  This child will come from a different racial background than me.  That is a 100% guarantee.  Whether my son or daughter is pink, tan, brown or black, they will be my child, and they won't look like me.  Mike and I have spoken to every single family member, one on one, about this fact.  Every one of them has stated, loud and clear, that they will love their grandchild, niece or nephew, cousin or great grandchild, no matter the color, race or background.

Yet, in the last few days, I have read, with shock and disappointment as three of them made racist remarks on their Facebook pages.  As I reeled back in shock, I was truly speechless.   Had we not made our intentions clear enough?  Did they just not understand?  When they make those "silly, just kidding", intolerant remarks about those of a different race, they are talking about MY son, MY daughter!  Their own niece or nephew or grandchild!  This already feels so incredibly personal.

So now here I stand, knowing I need to say something with no idea what, or how to say it.  How to bring understanding without accusation, how to bring light to their attitudes without burning the relationship.  Part of me wants to say "I am Mama, hear me roar!", and part wants to turn my back and walk away from these family members.  This is already so hard, and we don't even have the baby yet!

7 comments:

Mrs. Frogster said...

wow that is so incredibly insensitive!
I think I would definitely confront them about it and make it clear just how personal it is to you and your family.
BTW, I have been reading all your posts and am excited at all the steps you guys are taking to get this baby. What a blessing you are - and your blog often encourages my heart.
Thank you!

missy said...

yep. it's personal now. i know god will give you wisdom to know how to respond with truth and grace.

Bethany said...

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. I'll pray for wisdom for you as you walk this fine line.

*Jess* said...

(hug) I am so sorry. I can only imagine how hurtful those remarks are. I hope, in time, your extended family will change their views.

asian~treasures said...

It definitely is a part of your life now...
I am praying that your precious blessing will be proud of the color of his/her skin regardless of being different than those around. And, perhaps your blessing will help change the things relatives say...

The Accidental Mommy said...

Oh, that is hard! I hope it can be resolved in a good way for everyone.

Rachel said...

I understand what you mean! I have a family that claims one thing if you ask them but say something completely different - and grossly inappropriate and hurtful. I don't know how to respond either.