Through the magic of the internet, cell phones, and a bluetooth keyboard, I come to you from the playground, where my son’s class is having their year end party. Getting to watch him respond to peer pressure is a rare treat, as it is working in my favor right now. In another eight years? I hope it’s still in my favor.
It is hot as an oven out here, and humid too.
When we got in the car today, I handed over my cell phone,queued up to a news story about a man who has attempted two kidnappings in a nearby city. He is telling children that their mother is hurt, and he needs to take them to her. Doesn’t seem to be gender picky–he just wants a kid.
I wanted Thor to read the story, rather than just relating it to him a) because I think when we read something, we retain it longer, b) the story gave a description of the man, c) it would hold more weight than just having Mom say so, and d) I want him to get used to reading the news. He took it with a solemn understanding, and we discussed it, and went over other things a stranger might say to entice a child into a car, or down an alley, or into a house.
It really horrifies me to think about a child falling prey to that trick. Worried his mom is hurt, only to find that it’s not his mom he needed to worry about. And then, his mom… I would lose my mind. It wouldn’t be worth keeping.
I say that. I would keep my mind and I would use it to become a vigilante.
Lots of little people running around me out here. I’m trying not to think about statistical probabilities, and which pair of neon sneakers, and which hair bow represents what.
I think I read too much news.
The Outside Lane 