Abstract Book of the 10th International Conference on Research in Education, Teaching and Learning
Year: 2025
[PDF]
“I Have No Hands to Caress My Face”: Navigating Troubled Times With–And For–Our Children
Prof. Dr. Karen Armstrong
ABSTRACT:
This paper will address feelings of fear, discouragement and helplessness which have become characteristic of contemporary existence. It will offer suggestions about how to navigate these challenges, both with—and for—our children in order that we rise to new heights of achievement and deepen our potential in the areas of literacy and capacity for a rich life.
Areas to be considered are recent assaults on our way of life: a) the pandemic; b) loss and changes in our relationships; b) the isolation created by our use of technology; c) the dissolution of an agreed-upon reality; d) the loss of a common center; e) narcissism; f) acceptance of violence; and g) the effects of racism on all of us. (Nepo, 2022). Underlying all, with be an exploration of the way our use of language and ways of communicating, exacerbate these problems.
The presentation will close with concrete suggestions for mindsets and actions to move us forward toward self-actualization and human flourishing.
Keywords: Family Literacy, World Problems, Well-Being, Parenting, And Education