What do you think about this?

So, I have been away for a moment. Not on a trip just away from an ability to sit with my thoughts. I have been so busy and enjoying it but, have missed my expression of self. So, I am back. I know you have missed me as well so don't worry, I won't stay away for long again.

My thoughts right now are with the case being reviewed by the Supreme Court this week which involves the strip search of the 13 year old Arizona girl about 6 years ago. This came to my attention the other night as I was following my nightly routine of catching up with the news via radio. At first hear, I was appalled. I could not believe that this young girl, Savana Redding, had been violated in this way and there were some that were justifying the act.

It was amazing to me that school officials found it prudent to strip search a 13 year old honor roll student who had never been at the receiving end of any school reprimands or committed any prior infractions. I was, however, also amazed that the girl actually took off her clothes. Now, I understand authority of adults and school officials (from the child's perspective). In this situation, a scared child was faced with a definite abuse of that authority and did what fear dictated she do. I have just always had a different "understanding" of school authority.

The authority most important to me was that which I always felt given to me to protect me. My mother did not advocate disobedience. Yet, she advocated self-protection. In my mind, when the two conflict, I err on the side of self-protection and deal with the consequences of my actions later. I was known to have challenged my fair share of teachers and/or principals. I am sure that my mother got tired of visiting the principal's office or having a teacher conference because Kai felt wronged. However, she did it and all things were settled in the presence of my ultimate protector - MOM.

Where was this child's mom? Well, she wasn't even called to be made aware of the situation prior to school officials ordering the child to disrobe. Unbelievable! I made note to have a talk with my girl (soon to be 15). I want her to understand that simply being a teacher does not make you in the right at all times. Under no circumstances is she to ever undress for a strip search. Under NO circumstances. She has the power to refuse as I have passed that sword onto her to protect herself in the face of those that have perceived authority. Her authority over herself takes precedence.

If my child is to be strip searched...Damn it...you are going to have to strip her yourself. And, that would open a whole other can of worms. And believe you me...that can is better left sealed.

With all of that said...and my daughter aware that she has the right and responsibility to protect self even when those who are charged with her protection fail her in the name of protection of the community...I am able to process this a little further.

So what she was an honor roll student! So what she had never been in trouble before! Smart kids do stupid things and often get away with them because no one suspects the smart kid. Good kids do bad things - and get away with it because no one suspects the good kid. Read the book Beautiful Boy. This young man had it all together and was living the life. Only, he was strung out on drugs. In this day and age, we can't put anything past anybody. That is the saddest part.

What if drugs (Advil) were found on this girl? What if she did have it in her bra? Would her mother be so angry or would she appreciate the discovery and seek help for her daughter? (I know its only Advil but I'm just saying...if she were distributing it like a dealer then she would need some kind of help)

So here's the thing:
She was "prosecuted" based on hearsay.
Her mother was neither present or aware of situation.
Nothing was found.
More importantly: Did they strip search the girl who accused Savana of "Dealing"?

In the end...I hope the Supreme Court errs on the side of the child and not on the concept that it is ok to sacrifice one if the others will benefit. Especially when that one is an innocent child.

After review and process...I still empower my child to protect herself and call her mom.

What is your take?