We got together with some old friends the other day. We were so excited about seeing them again. Jackson and Jeremiah even gathered up a few goodies to share with their old friend just because they wanted their friend to feel special.
Unfortunately for us, their friend has moved onto a new lifestyle and new circle of friends and that 'connection' seems to be lost. Their friend was disinterested and acted bored and treated us all very coolly. Their old friend played a hand-held video game and kept asking to go home instead of wanting to play with Jackson and Jeremiah. Jackson especially was crushed and disappointed. Jeremiah was sad....but also a little upset, because their old friend accused them of being 'homeschoolers'. Actually said in a 'look-down-my-nose" kind of way, "Oh, you're a homeschooler aren't you?"
I had heard the same thing earlier in our meeting, but kind of brushed it aside, even though it did hurt my feelings.
I didn't know being a homeschooler was a terrible thing. There are far worse things to be. I didn't know that there was an us-against-them mentality. That makes me sad.
Jackson & Jeremiah wanted to talk about what happened, but I didn't know what to say. Jackson told me that he thought that kind of meanness mostly happened in public schools, not between old friends. Jeremiah said that maybe they were never friends at all. Jackson didn't believe that, but he didn't know what he had done wrong to make this old friend not like him anymore.
He didn't feel it was fair to be judged on whatever name we use to show what we do to learn at home or in life. I agree with him. I was surprised that Jeremiah compared their old friend's prejudice to someone being judged by what faith they are, or what color of skin they have, or by what is their favorite food.
It just doesn't make sense.
I was saddened to overhear them speaking to each other in their room that evening about how they just had to accept that their friend has a new life now, and even though they will miss them, they are happy for them, too......
Sometimes I think my sons are wiser and more kind-hearted than me.
No comments:
Post a Comment