July 14, 2010

In My Own Backyard

She makes the quiet statement about a boy who has been spending his days in our yard. "I don't like him."

It's obvious she's been thinking about what she just said. She's visibly upset, her eyes fill with tears as she finishes her thought, "He said he didn't want to play with me. I have this skin. Brown skin. He doesn't like brown skin."

She's pointing to her arm with disgust. The emotion I see is so strong and terrifying that I hug her tightly and start sobbing with her. I have no words that can undo the hurt she feels.

On the kitchen floor.

Cradling our six year old in my lap.

Both of us crying.

I can't believe our daughter met prejudice for the first time swinging on her swing set.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Aww poor Sally :( This is heartbreaking.

Karen said...

Like a punch in the stomach! Ugh - I just can't believe it. I know the day will come for us too. I watch for it at times, and then feel guilty that I am on the lookout. Hoping it will never rear its ugly head - and yet knowing that it will. Love her through it, Apryl, as only a mommy can! Sally is beautiful - inside and out! It's sad that some children (and grownups) don't understand this and think that beauty is in monotony instead of rainbows! Love to you!! Karen Wistrom

A Joyful Chaos said...

How hurtful! I am here crying with her.

Rob and Candy said...

oh I am so sorry!

kristie said...

No words can comfort that kind of wound, only her confidence in Christ will do that. What a blessing for her that you held her and cried WITH her. Its a hard job, being a mom, but you are great at it. :)

JonesEthiopia said...

How utterly devestating. My babies are small, but I dread the day when they experience something like this. I am so very sorry.

jill coen said...

You are one of the best Mommas I know.

jill coen said...

You are one of the best Mommas I know.