We went to our community pool today. Usually during our swims, my five year old makes friends almost every time she goes. She loves meeting new people and playing with other kiddos. So, when four little girls around the same age as her walked into the pool, she was super excited. She saw they had all brought masks and dive toys just like hers. Her brave little soul swam over with her own dive toys. She asks, “Can I play with you guys?” They answer, “No.” I locked eyes with her and could tell her big heart was a little broken. I waved her over and as she got closer to me she began to cry more. I held her as she told me what happened.

I reminded her that not everyone wants to make friends and that some people aren’t kind. I also told her that if people act that way then they probably aren’t people you want to try and be friends with.

My heart hurts for her.

As we sat at our dinner table tonight, she brought it up to her daddy. I instantly started to cry at the heartbreak that still was on her sweet face. I tried to hide it at first because I didn’t want her to see me upset about the situation but eventually she caught on (little smarty pants).

This was a huge reminder today. It was a reminder that I cannot protect them from all the ugly in this world. However, what I can do is remind them and show them the beauty though. I can remind them of how to treat people, to include people, to care for people, and to also protect themselves from people that don’t have their best interest.

Don’t let your kids be those kids. The worst part about this whole thing was that the dad of the four girls was right there playing with them and saw that my daughter went to try and play. He said and did nothing.