Yesterday during our history lesson the discussion turned to slavery. No matter what the subject, the kids always have questions and always want to know more. This was no exception. They wanted to know about the slaves living conditions, what they ate, how they learned, what life was like for the children.

Even though they are still quite young, I think it's important to tell my kids the truth about things like this. I tread carefully, though, in an effort to convey an accurate depiction of history while also trying to shelter their innocence about the harsh realities of life and humanity. Asa, especially, wanted to know about the lives of slave children. I told him that sometimes, when a slave owner had too many, or needed some extra money, or had a problem with a persistent runaway, he would sell a child to another owner and the children would likely never see their family again. I told him that, yes, even the children were sometimes on the mean end of a whip.

With this information, Asa's tender heart ached. He turned to me, his eyes full of tears, and collapsed into me, sobbing.
"What is it, buddy?" I asked, as the other kids looked on, unsure how to respond.
"What you just said, mama, about the children. It's so sad. I didn't want that to happen to those children." he cried.

I held him for awhile and told him about everything that has happened since. I shared with them about all of the people who felt just like he does and worked so hard to change things. And succeeded. Relieved that slavery no longer exists in America, but still concerned, they wanted to know if it happens anywhere else in the world. Our conversation eventually led to the crisis and tragedies in Sudan. Again, Asa was especially moved. He wanted to know what we could do. How could we stop this? How can we save these children?

I realized then how much I don't know. How unconcerned I seem based on the amount of action I have taken to find out what I can do about the crisis in the lives of suffering people everywhere. I have committed to Asa that I will find out. If there's a way that he can make a difference for someone who is hurting, I will find out how to help him do it.

This kid amazes me. I can't wait to see what world changing things God calls him to accomplish.