In recent discussions with acquaintances, the question arises: “Aren’t you concerned?” This inquiry often follows the revelation that our 13-year-old son, Tyler, will spend two weeks in France this summer. They hesitate, searching for the right way to express their apprehensions about “gun violence” or to make veiled references to terrorism, all while trying to maintain decorum during casual conversations.
Our response is simple: “Well, duh.” It’s a universal sentiment that transcends language barriers. As parents, we worry daily—whether it’s when Tyler boards the school bus, handles fishing gear, races down the stairs, or walks home from his friends’ houses. The notion that we would be overly anxious about a trip abroad, while ignoring the myriad of everyday dangers, seems misguided.
Of course, there’s a certain level of concern about sending him overseas. It’s akin to worrying about lightning strikes or encountering a Portuguese man o’ war at the beach—something that crosses my mind every summer, given their reputation for causing harm. Yet, we’re not letting fear dictate our choices. The question of keeping him safe by keeping him in America, where the dangers are perceived as lower, is darkly amusing.
We signed the exchange program papers for two primary reasons: 1) the allure of summer in France, and 2) Tyler’s eagerness to participate. When his engaging French teacher presented the opportunity, he was thrilled—much to our surprise, akin to him announcing a groundbreaking scientific discovery. Tyler’s bravery and sense of adventure far exceed what I had at his age, and it was his enthusiasm that spurred us to swiftly sign the documents.
While people often ask if we are frightened, we actually feel a tinge of jealousy. He’ll be residing in a picturesque town nestled in the Alps, a place that appears to embody the essence of French culture with bustling cafés, vibrant flags, and stunning mountain backdrops. His school will be small, filled with children who have been studying together since kindergarten. His host family consists of a delightful mix of siblings who speak only a few words of English, but we hope they will embrace Tyler as a quirky seventh grader, much like we did during our own youth.
Of course, we’ll be a bundle of nerves leading up to his departure. But Tyler is not a hardened adventurer, nor is he seeking danger. I imagine he’ll find comfort in familiar activities, perhaps even playing Minecraft in France. He is going on this journey with the hope that it will help combat ignorance and fear, a counter to the absurd anxieties perpetuated by media narratives.
One parent recently commented on immigration issues, attempting to connect them with our son’s exchange experience. It’s unclear if she envisioned a customs scenario involving families wearing hijabs. Reflecting on my own childhood, I realize we had everything we needed, but international experiences were not on the table—my mother was more of a homebody out of love, which stifled my sense of adventure.
Ultimately, we hope this experience teaches Tyler that the world is vast and accessible, especially for those who are fortunate enough to have such opportunities. Ignorance breeds fear, and perhaps one day, we’ll also consider sending his younger brother on a similar adventure.
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In summary, while we do harbor some concerns about Tyler’s upcoming adventure, they are overshadowed by our excitement for him. This experience isn’t just about navigating new cultures; it’s about fostering understanding and breaking down the fears that often come with ignorance.
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