The fierce love of a parent

Hello Parents

The story of the release of [Israeli soldier] Gilad Shalit to his family left me thinking of how much it is a part of being human to want your children safe, happy and nearby. Every parent in the whole world could relate to that feeling, that need, of this young man's parents to get him released. No matter where you live, what you do, or what beliefs you hold, if you are a parent you can feel a part of this instinctual drive to get your child out of danger and back home where he or she is safe.

I was really struck by the measures this family went to meet this need. They hired a PR person to get the nation's support behind their son's cause. They camped out in front of state buildings for 18 months - slept there for 18 months. That is almost hard to imagine. They held marches and rallies and did anything they could think of to pressure the government to aid in the release of their son. This became the focus of their lives. Their whole life became shaped by this need to get their son home, out of danger and out of captivity.

It made me realize how this feeling to save our children at all costs connects all of us parents around the globe. It left me thankful that my children are safe, free to live as they choose and are still close by. It reminded me of the power of persistence and the human drive to make something happen. It made me think about the fact that there are many other prisons that can "steal" our children away such as drug addition, alcoholism or even anger or hurt feelings. We, as parents, need to keep our eyes open for those societal captives that can lock our children away just as powerfully as a prision. What does persistence to save a child look like in these situations?

This story demonstrated to me the drive to keep loved ones safe and close as one so strong it cuts through everything else. Was the release of this young man a smart move for the country? Was the deal they struck too high? Those are questions I cannot answer. But in the eyes of his family those questions don't seem even relevant.

A bit of Gilad's story is listed below. What does all of this mean for you ... and your family ?

Looking pale, thin and emotional, Gilad Shalit was reunited with his family Tuesday after more than five years in captivity. Now he faces what is likely to be a bewildering few days, weeks and months as he readjusts to a life of liberty. While no one yet knows exactly what he went through, other captives' experiences give an insight into his likely state of mind -- and suggest that although he has his freedom, other challenges lie ahead. Only 19 at the time of his capture in June 2006, Shalit was known to few outside his circle of family, friends and fellow soldiers.

Christine D'Amico