Comments on: Corporal Punishment

By: Nancy Anderson

Nancy Anderson — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 04:52:28 +0000

I weep for those children, Natalie, as you have done. I know you are hoping to not become calloused and accepting of these acts of discipline with children. It may be part of the tradition to parent this way, but it doesn’t make it right. The small inroads you may make by speaking to your Senegalese peers about this topic may have a long-reaching effect. And you can also be a model of positive reinforcement as you teach … maybe others will notice and follow. Bon chance.
(Erica’s mom, Nancy)

By: Meiri Anto

Meiri Anto — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 02:46:59 +0000

This was beautiful. As a child, I also witnessed this issue and I applaud your bravery in writing about it so openly. I only hope your host family can see it as you do. When you approach them with love and not hate, maybe they can change their ways.

By: Aubrey

Aubrey — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 21:26:24 +0000

this is beautifully written. I actually just finished reading a 20 page report on corporal punishment in Africa and more specifically in Senegal, This problem is facing me so directly its scary. when placed in front of 100 children who, their entire lives have only been taught to respond to this kind of punishment, what else can i do to secure not only my safety amongst them but theirs as well? This problem in the village goes so deep into their culture like you so elegantly said, but i think its an issue that we need to at least begin to address in our homes, our neighbors homes, and our schools.
i love you

By: janet council

janet council — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:04:59 +0000

Dearest Natalie,
What a courageous view of a complicated situation. I appreciate the moral and ethical questions that arise from this soul searching and applaud you for “doing it anyway” as Mother Theresa said. I am glad that you were raised to question authority and stand for what is right. I am proud of you for speaking out – it is the most difficult route, which is how we know that it is the good and true response. Thank you for being the voice for those children. I love you for so many reasons. After reading this I love you for your integrity and your human decency. Peace and blessings, Janet

By: Jacee McHugh

Jacee McHugh — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 18:29:35 +0000

I think your post shows empathy for all the parties caught in this situation, and maturity beyond what people many years your senior might have. You (kindly) offered an alternative, to reward the good vs punish the bad. Perhaps you built a bridge that your older cousin can begin to cross. That is teaching.