War, child 28-April 2009 2:02 AM
Posted by robodad in humor.trackback
The other day, I happened to need to explain what a torpedo was to my six year old.
After I explained that it was a weapon that blew up boats, she asked “But why would someone want to do that, daddy?”
Instantly, I felt terrible. How do you explain war, killing, and death to a little girl that plays with dolls?
I lurched past a brief, 20 word-or-less explanation of war, and settled into a more comfortable factual rhythm as we looked up some pictures or torpedoes on the internet.
But my mind was darkened by the realization: Here is the world I give you, child. Here is a world made difficult by nature, disease, and mortality. And oh yeah, there are people that kill for nationality, business, or even pleasure… Good luck.
It’s worthwhile being factual and not emotional at this stage over weapons. Rowan wants guns – I tell him no, and that when he’s older I’ll get him a proper gun and we will explore together what they’re really for.
It’s a tough one – I don’t envy you.