Where to start! What to say!
As someone who is used to writing about motherhood, kids and family life, my first reaction when I read about the most recent cases of rape, was to make this post. Now all I can do is stare, because this is not going to be the usual chatty tone we are used to here.
Parenting, especially motherhood is a lot… that is why a lot of work is expected on our parts when raising our kids. The first time you become a mum, you understand the magnitude of the responsibility you have to shoulder. Then the big worry sets in, from worrying about the amount of milk you’re expressing, to worrying about protecting your baby.
I will lay more emphasis on the female gender, because 91% of rape and assault victims are female. Argue all you want but if misogyny is not one of the reasons at fault here, then I don’t know what is.
It’s time to tackle this and nip it in the bud starting from parenting.
I know we don’t want our kids to be victims of rape or similar disgusting situations, so what do we do?
A lot, I must say…
- We’ve been culturally conditioned to think about indecent dressing when such cases occur, but the sole blame should actually be on the perpetrator. Instilling a strict dress code in girls will not change someone whose mind is determined about something. Or don’t you think so?
- The focus should be on teaching girls how not to get raped and teaching boys not to rape. Hence, sensitization is an early tool in parenting. Start early.
- We don’t want to raise kids who embrace toxic beliefs, so let’s be mindful of the kind of comments we make around kids, in addition to what and who they are exposed to.
- Be vigilant about the type of media they consume. It should be age appropriate, and if something pops up in the form of questions, or unforeseen scenes, explaining why in an age appropriate manner will suffice. I remember a story when a little girl asked what sex was. Her mum sat her down and took her time to explain to her that it’s an act which God has set aside for only husbands(daddies) and wives(mummies), in order to make babies. Any other person who indulges in it will face the wrath of God. I applaud this because the earlier you give them answers to these questions, the better for all. F not, somehow, somewhere, they will still get to know what it is. You don’t want them getting the wrong information and all.
- Teach them to respect their bodies and that of others by knowing their boundaries. They shouldn’t be in an uncomfortable situation just because of fear.
- Boys should know that the female gender should be respected and viceversa.
- Start these lessons from an early age and make sure the kids know that they have a listening ear and confidant in you anytime.
I wish for a world where no one has to experience these horrific crimes. But to make that happen, we need to stand up and speak out.
We need to raise our kids right.
We need to join hands together and pray with one voice.
We need to…
We need to…
A lot needs to be said…
Let’s change the status quo by making rape a more discussable topic. Let’s work towards a future where our women and girls can walk freely through the darkest places without any fear in the world.
XOXO,
Yours Truly
