A Whisper In The Night

"You are a child of the universe

no less that the trees and the stars;

you have a right to be here."

Max Ehrmann

Would we have less child abuse if like pillows, we arrived with a safety tag securely stitched into our side?  If we arrived with a message like handle with care, or wash gently, or do not expose to high heat, would we have less child abuse and enhanced childhoods?

Answering my own question, I would say, probably not.  The thoughtless care givers who choose to abuse would not be deterred by any label of care.  Neglected little ones barely see sheltering trees or stars of hope.  They are too busy trying to be invisible or at least minimize personal presence.  They avoid attention out of fear.  Unfortunately, these immature minds are not equipped to realize they have done no wrong.  They willing accept the word of the predator that they are somehow damaged and unworthy. Shame binds them completely onto themselves as unworthy.

There are exceptions, but unfortunately the majority of us are full grown before we realize any sense of entitlement to this earth.  By the time we turn to nature for comfort or some sense of connection, our barriers are erected high and self-loathing is tucked inside.  How dearly it would be to hear the sound of a whisper in the night, "You have a right to be here!"