Talking Politics
On the way home from school today, Vika and Eamon had an interesting discussion about today's election.
Vika: Mama, today in class we had an election, and I voted for Barack Obama.
Me: Really? Who won the election?
V: Obama, baby! Only 2 people voted for McCain.
Eamon: We voted in my class too!
M: Oh yeah? Who did you vote for?
E: McCain.
M: Really? How come you voted for McCain?
E: I kinda like him!
V: EAMON! If McCain wins, there's gonna be more wars, and people are gonna DIE!
E: But Vika, Allie (a girl in his class) said that if McCain isn't President, he's gonna start a war with Russia!
At this point, Vika began crying loudly at the idea of us going to war with Russia, and political talks pretty much broke down. In an effort to smooth things over, Eamon changed the subject to what we would be having for dinner. It didn't work, so I assured her that if McCain did not become President, then he could not start a war with Russia. That seemed to help a bit, but Vika still cried quietly, and when we arrived home, she got out of the car with red-rimmed eyes and a runny nose.
It's interesting to see what kids pick up about world events at such a young age (even if some of the information is incorrect).
*** Update ***
Vika is feeling significantly better since seeing an analysis on CNN which basically shows that it could be impossible for John McCain to win. Eamon's a bit bummed, but he's taking the predicted loss in stride.
Vika: Mama, today in class we had an election, and I voted for Barack Obama.
Me: Really? Who won the election?
V: Obama, baby! Only 2 people voted for McCain.
Eamon: We voted in my class too!
M: Oh yeah? Who did you vote for?
E: McCain.
M: Really? How come you voted for McCain?
E: I kinda like him!
V: EAMON! If McCain wins, there's gonna be more wars, and people are gonna DIE!
E: But Vika, Allie (a girl in his class) said that if McCain isn't President, he's gonna start a war with Russia!
At this point, Vika began crying loudly at the idea of us going to war with Russia, and political talks pretty much broke down. In an effort to smooth things over, Eamon changed the subject to what we would be having for dinner. It didn't work, so I assured her that if McCain did not become President, then he could not start a war with Russia. That seemed to help a bit, but Vika still cried quietly, and when we arrived home, she got out of the car with red-rimmed eyes and a runny nose.
It's interesting to see what kids pick up about world events at such a young age (even if some of the information is incorrect).
*** Update ***
Vika is feeling significantly better since seeing an analysis on CNN which basically shows that it could be impossible for John McCain to win. Eamon's a bit bummed, but he's taking the predicted loss in stride.
that is interesting what they pick up. I am not at that point yet with my kiddos, but it is just a matter of time
My kids also had an election at their school. And my son has tought our youngest to say "Obama".
This morning, as they wake up, it's a new day.
Do you think, at almost 9 & 7, they might remember this moment?
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You're kids are adorable.
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I've often thought that politics would go better if politicians were forced to hold each others children while they talked to each other.
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I hope V isn't worried about Russia this morning. What a special place it is to our kids, their homeland. How sweet for her to feel it deep in her heart. Sweet girl.
Thanx for sharing!
Cute story. I love Heidi's comment about the candidates holding or being with the other person's kids while campaigning. What a different world that would be!
I love Heidi's idea too, 'though it could be a wee bit awkward if they're grown-up kids.
I hope ALL our kiddies - and us, too - are feeling more optimistic about our relations with Russia today.
Have I mentioned how I love that pic of your munchkins in the banner? They're gorgeous!!!
Heidi - I love your idea about the politicians having to hold each other's kids (or grandkids if the child is grown up). Maybe then we'd have less hate-filled shouts like we saw during this election.
Susan and Heidi - Thanks for the compliment on my kids! I think they're pretty cute myself. :)
Anton and Alina are very unhappy with the fact that they can't become President because they were born in Russia. We have told them that they can be Senators, Governors, etc., but it just isn't the same! Anton keeps wanting to know if he can be President of Russia...
OT: Just wanted to let you know that I have visual confirmation on Twix in Russia.
Oh poor V! Glad things got smoothed over though!
I think a lot of the U.S. population is similarly misinformed about many political issues not unlike V and E. Including myself. I have become a cynic in regards to believing anything the media dishes out. I think there are elements of truth, but a lot is left out and a lot is one sided and a lot is skewed or slanted. I don't trust republicans or dems anymore, but I have to say that I couldn't help but smile at Obama's victory. Every time I read something about the black communities reaction to the win I cry.