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A terrific piece that really spoke to me and has applicable tools built in to the article. We would love to know what you think of it.

The 1 Thing That Child Therapists Say Harms Kids' Happiness The Most Record numbers of children and teens are struggling emotionally right now. Here's how parents can help.

Pride month is important to me. I find myself reflecting on the meaning of Pride and it’s significance to me and those I love.

I think of friends from all ages and stages of my life whose truth I held in confidence because of a crippling fear of rejection from those they loved. Their willingness to trust me and let me know them as they are has informed much of how I parent. I am grateful that my mom and dad made sure I knew they did not care who I loved but my character and kindness was the metric that matters. Still does.

I am grateful that my religious leaders did not teach me to know a whose love came with an *. My God is full of love and light. Seeing all of our promise and potential. As my Daniel Treiser (of blessed memory) used to say, it’s not great for fundraising but the gift of human dignity is priceless.

I am happy when new places celebrate and acknowledge Pride. But I tread carefully because I have seen, well meaning allies take up the space designed for those with whom the month is meant to honor and celebrate. These months serve a purpose from a historical perspective and as a vision for a more inclusive future. The goal is never not to need Pride, Black History, Womens History or Domestic Violence month etc it’s to build better communities…month by month and year by year…rich with greater awareness, dialogue and to collectively curate safe spaces to tell your truth when and if you so choose.

It is also to remember and dream.

These celebrations, conversations and occasions are important. I listen with two ears and an open heart. There is no greater gift than someone sharing the most vulnerable parts of themselves.

But my role is to be a spectator. Not the main event. Allies serve as members of the audience, cheerleaders and offer love and support. Unless otherwise asked to serve in another capacity. But we must show up. Showing up matters. A lot.

Today on the anniversary of the Pulse massacre standing in solidarity and disavowing acts of unhinged violence feels like a moral imperative.

So I wish you all a Happy Pride. May you love and be loved. May we all know a love worth celebrating and fighting for and in turn do the same for our neighbors, family, friends and complete strangers. Because love is the one thing there can never be too much of…

A leadership opportunity for a passionate student: https://www.itsonus.org/campus-organizing-programs/become-a-regional-advisor/

It's On Us | Become a Regional Advisor “My experience as a Regional Advisor has allowed me to connect with others who share a similar passion to put an end to s*xual violence, strengthen my leadership skills, work on my own healing, and build friendships that I know will last a lifetime. Being a part of this team has truly been one of ...