#ChildrensLivesMatter
One of the trending topics in Aruba these days is about pedophiles. Aruba’s law and justice regarding this have gotten a lot of backlash.
It started with news about an uncle who molested his two nieces. At first, he only got 20 months as a punishment by the law. I have recently heard that the new verdict is five (5) years. That’s nothing compared to the damage they have caused to these angels.
A lot of news and stories are popping up, people are coming forward bravely to tell their own horrifying experiences.
According to the news, about 80% of child abuse in Aruba is incest. Their own family ruining the lives of these children. Pedophiles only get months or a few years in jail as punishment. And this is not acceptable. The rage of people is foreseeable.
They want change. Aruban People gathered to fight for these children. They fight to stop child abuse. The law must change.
Children’s lives matter. They really do.
And on July 3, 2020, people protested. A lot of them gathered in front of the courthouse, and Aruban parliament. Aruban people decided to agree on one thing – Stop child abuse! Fair justice should be given.
To know more: Go to Facebook page: Children’s Lives Matter
My heart breaks…
I honestly don’t want to dig in with all the experiences of these youngsters, who had experienced this kind of suffering because I get affected easily. I’ve heard some, and my heart breaks for them. I feel really bad. If I could heal them right away, I would.
Those evil deeds ruined someone’s life, someone’s future. I can imagine how difficult it would be to deal with fears, anxieties, trauma, and depression. Their behaviors must be in line because of a horrendous experience.
For that reason, I completely understand the rant of these people who are fighting for justice. I am for them. Something has to change.
You cannot just destroy little ones’ lives, and just go away with it easily. Justice, that’s what everyone’s want.
How do I feel as a mom and how I deal with it?
Frightened.
It is scary. I am a mother of an 8 month old baby. I wouldn’t want my child to experience it. Who would want to?
Another story, a child was abused since she was 6-month old by her stepfather. She’s now five years old. Man… my heart. I just can’t. It really breaks my heart.
I looked at my daughter, she is pretty and adorable, and happy. I asked God to protect her every time, all her life. It breaks my heart to even hear stories from others, how much more if it is your own child?
I feel for the mothers or parents who suffered from, and with their children. I can imagine the pain. Writing these down makes my heart really sad and all I can whisper in prayer now is “may the Lord embrace you”
It is the first time I write something like this. And I can’t help but be affected. It’s heavy for me, to be honest.
Faith and Trust
But whenever I feel afraid about my child’s everyday life would be, I will always remember that GOD loves her more than I do. He will protect her.
I am trusting Him that He will cover my daughter with thousands of angels to protect her from any harm, and evil deeds.
We as parents…
It is our responsibility to do the best we can, to guide, and keep our children safe. My husband and I talked about it. And one of the things we should tell or train our child(ren) as they grow is to set boundaries.
Here are some of the basic tips to teach our children:
- Do not eat or drink anything from strangers or anyone. Our (parents) permission should be asked first.
- Do not talk to strangers even they are seem kind.
- No sitting on any man’s lap.
- As much as possible, If you have a girl, do not let any guy babysit your child.
- I would also tell my daughter to not let anyone touch her private part but mommy. (In some case, this is difficult especially when both parents are working. But still it is good to advise this to them)
Communicate…
The best part is talking with them every day. Ask how their day went. What are the things they did on that day, and who they were with?
If something strange about their stories and behavior. Don’t just ignore it. Know more about your child. And do something.
My Prayer
I really feel sorrowful for the ones who have been abused. I do pray, though it is difficult, they will grow up happy and successful. The awful experience would not hinder them to do the things they want to in life. I pray for healing in every way. May they recover from the damage that has been done to them, the wounds that made them broken. My heart goes to these children, to the parents, and family that are affected. I pray for healing and peace.
In Jesus name, Amen
For my daughter
I love you with everything in me, Zoey. Mommy and Daddy will try our very best to guide you, train, and protect you. But know that God loves you so much. With this, I am confident that you will be safe. Because God loves you more than we do. He will be with you all the time. Love, Mommy
Final Thoughts
It is normal to be scared as a mother with this issue. But the Lord reminded me today that He is in control. Fear will be present. I don’t have any explanation of why things happened as they are, but what I do know, God has a purpose.
Have a great day, everyone!
