The word ally is defined as: (noun) a person who associates or cooperates with another; supporter.
To be an ally is to stand up for someone. To show empathy and compassion. To be there when someone needs you.
I will always encourage my sons to be allies. They may not yet fully grasp the meaning of that specific word, but it is a foundational value I work every single day to instill.
Be kind to everyone. Find a kid who looks lonely and talk to them. Stand up for your friends.
Stand up to your friends if they’re excluding someone or saying mean things. Treat everyone equally. If someone seems different, be curious.
Some of my proudest mom moments have been hearing my oldest share how he stood up for his friend or went against his friends to include another child. It’s not easy to go against the status quo at any age. But, he came home from school in each situation excited to tell me. It wasn’t that he knew I would be proud (even though I was). He was proud of himself. And that is how I know this value will stick with him.
I will continue to encourage him. I will talk through the tough situations with him, giving advice if he seeks it out. I will continue to model being an ally in my own life. I will continue to grow and get better at it.
I will bring his younger brother into the conversations, so he sees it modeled, not just from mom and dad, but from his big brother. The person he looks up to more than anything.
I will teach my sons, and remind them as often as needed, that they will never get in trouble at home for doing the right thing outside of our home.
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