By ELLEN LEWIS
I rarely allow my personal opinions into this space, but when trauma is propagated against children, I cannot hold my tongue. The last time I shared these thoughts was in the aftermath of Sandy Hook. A child should never be a pawn in adult discord. This concept is not political, it is human. What is happening with migrant families at America’s borders is shameful. A friend posted this image photographed by Magda G of Mélancolie by the sculptor Albert György on Facebook and I thought; this reflects the hole I feel in my heart today. Summer officially begins tomorrow. In two weeks we will celebrate the founding fathers. We MUST find a way to obliterate this incredibly unpatriotic behavior and rise up to the standards of the nation that we were born to be.
I know I am using a very macro message and drilling down to a very micro example when I compare this issue to the current stature of the B*Up Pajamas, sleep and loungewear brand. But several thoughts motivate me. First it reminds me of the trauma that the Walsh’s, B*Up’s founders, experienced when they lost their 26 year old daughter, Elizabeth, who passed away in 2014. Anyone who has lost a child, to disease, addiction or diversity knows this pain. Second, B*Up Pajamas used this tragedy to push back from despair to build an impressive collection in their signature Pima cotton/ modal fabric. It has been created with the determination and easy going character that is reminiscent of Elizabeth’s nature. Featured here is just one example from the Brea Collection, sized comfortably from S-XL. The stark contrast of the Walsh’s situation, for which there was no other possible outcome, to the cynical disregard of parents separated purposely from their children inspired this blog.
“There is no trust more sacred than the one the world holds with children. There is no duty more important than ensuring that their rights are respected, that their welfare is protected, that their lives are free from fear and want and that they can grow up in peace.” ~Kofi Annan
