12 Comments

Oh, Lauren -- I represent a totally different generation, but I get this on so many levels! Thank you for your honesty and your ray of hope. We are truly in this together!

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Thank you so much, Gerry. This means a lot. Yes, we ARE in this together!

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Nov 18Liked by Lauren Rhoades

Sending lots of love - and many thanks for your essay. Many of us have been in a very similar situation and it means a lot to read how you got through it! By the way, I'm finding Jessica Craven's substack "Chop Wood, Carry Water" to be helpful. She's got politically productive suggestions for getting our voices heard.

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Thank you, Elise. And thanks for the "Chop Wood, Carry Water" rec. I just subscribed! Tangible actions are so helpful.

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Nov 18Liked by Lauren Rhoades

Yup - stress in one (or several) of its many forms - will lead to one (or several) forms of parental error. And what’s been more stressful than these last two weeks? Anyway, I enjoyed your essay and believe that you are right that holding onto to those love and building community is the best way to deal with Trump et al. Peace to all!

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Thanks for this perspective, Chris. Parenting can be stressful even without the external factors! I appreciate the kind words, and yes to community! I'm so grateful.

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Nov 18Liked by Lauren Rhoades

Wow, Lauren, this really resonates with me; excellent piece! I can’t imagine how stressful it was when Ava was locked in the vehicle, and I’m so glad all ended well in that situation - but I completely empathize with feeling out of sorts following the election.

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Thank you so much, Laura! I was certainly not at my best in that moment, but I'm so grateful for the friends and strangers who responded--and proud of Ava for figuring out that lock!

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Nov 18Liked by Lauren Rhoades

❤️❤️❤️ i would be interested to know why he said No, his reasoning. I'm always curious. Everyone seemed so hopeful before to be so mistaken. Loved this take, community is what matters and that's the great thing about Mississippi, there's a chance to have real community and make a real difference. Thank you for sharing!

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It's a good question! I would say that based on his life experiences, he is a lot more jaded than me even though he would have loved to be proven wrong. And yes, to the feeling of community in Mississippi. It's so real. Especially the beautiful folks I know--like you--in the Delta!

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Nov 18Liked by Lauren Rhoades

This is such a great piece, Lauren: terrifying, heartbreaking, yet hopeful. Thank you for your insights and I can definitely relate as a mother. Love you! ❤️ ♥️ 💚

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Thank you, Mom! And I promise Ava is fine :) I love you!

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