Wednesday, 11 June 2025

playground politics

The past week has been an uphill climb, a steep learning curve, and a test of loyalty. But as they say, adversity doesn’t build character, it reveals it.

One of the clearest insights is recognising that friendship can’t be forced. If someone doesn’t share your values or have common interests, a genuine connection will never form. Sometimes, being secure in yourself unsettles those who aren’t. Instead of working through that discomfort, some resort to exclusion, gossip, or passive aggression.

It’s not an easy truth to accept, especially at a young age, but you learn there’s no need to shrink to make space for others. It’s possible to hold your ground and speak up, even when it feels awkward or unpopular.

The way you stand counts as much as what you stand for. It’s not just what you say, but how you say it. You can be firm in your opinions and kind in your words. You can call something out without tearing someone down. And you can use your voice without closing your ears. Respect isn’t silence, but having the gut to gauge when your words strike a nerve.

My message hit its mark. The culprits acknowledged their mistakes, showed remorse, and sought to reconcile. There’s satisfaction in knowing my words are sharp, and when wielded with care, they can pierce through pride and spark change. It takes humility and courage to apologise, both in writing and face to face, and to be accountable for your actions, which deserves credit. Dave remains sceptical about their sincerity, but I’m relieved there’s peace in the playground, the air has been cleared, and the tension defused. At the very least, they now know the adults are watching, not just bystanders but standing guard.

From this challenge, I’ve received strong support from fellow mama bears who share the same parenting values. It’s comforting to be in good company. In the end, moments of friction cut through the noise and show who’s really there for you.