These are very difficult times for anyone but most especially those raising children. How do we explain what is happening in and to our society, and how do we determine and explain who is to blame?

I feel tremendous sadness and compassion for those parents who have lost a child due to the poor judgment or bias of our society – whether that judgment or bias be conscious or unconscious. What their families endure is unfathomable. All parents hope and pray for their child’s safety and well-being – no matter their gender, race, color, age, disability or nationality. They are all our children, and they deserve our safe keeping and respect.

As parents, we strive to instill the morals and values we perceive to be honorable and just. We all want our children to feel safe, valued and loved. We aspire to raise productive citizens who contribute to the betterment of our communities and society.

My son has chosen to spend his life protecting the safety and well-being of his community; he is a police officer. He is also the most honorable man I have had the privilege to know, and his dedication to his community and brethren is undeniable.

The safety of every officer is in jeopardy each time a citizen calls 911 for help. They put their lives on the line for all of us – no matter who may have spit on them today or may call for help tomorrow. Each call, each person and each situation may require a spilt-second decision on the part of the officer. Can you imagine?

Are there bad cops? Yes. Are there bad lawyers, bad judges, bad politicians, opportunists and criminals? Yes. Should we judge the behavior of many by those of few? I don’t believe so. But what I do believe is that no one dislikes a bad cop more than a good one. I only know I don’t possess enough bravery or courage for that profession.

I also know that like other mothers who worry about whether or not their sons will come home at night because of the color of their skin, I worry about whether or not my son will come home at night because of the uniform he chooses to wear.

Perhaps, then, we could join hands as mothers. Know that I pray for the safety of your son, and I hope you pray for the safety of mine.