Should I let her go to D.C.?

[ashade75]

My daughter Brittany (who is 12), is suppose to go on a trip to Washington DC on June 3 for 4 days with a select group of students from her school.

When she was selected to go over a year ago, I was really excited that she would have this opportunity to see the nations capitol. I had the chance to go when I was in junior high and it was a great learning experience. However, now that we are in the middle of this war and with terrorist threats I am mixed about letting her go.

I talked to my daughter about it and she said she still wants to go. She said we can't be scared of things we think might happen and can not live our lives in fear. She is a very smart girl, but I think some of this is coming from her teacher at school who ensures her that DC is probably the safest place in the US right now.

I feel like I really need to let her play a part in making this decision, but if something would happen to her while she was there, I would never be able to forgive myself.

Any thoughts or suggestions on what I should do?

[MommyToAshley]

Wow-- that's a tough one. Is there any way you can go along as a chaperone? I know you have two other children, so that might not be an option.

I kind of agree that we can't let the terrorist win, but then again, this is a scarey time. Not sure if I could let mine go. I'm on the fence on this one. Sorry, not much help!

[ashade75]

I thought about being a chaperone. I didn't sign up in the beginning because of my 2 other children so I don't even know if I can still go.

Thanks Mommy.. I'm still not sure what I'm going to do on this one.

[madaise]

It seems like your dd has a healthy outlook on it. I agree with her. If you don't let her go, she'll understand, however, she'll be missing something really incredible for her age.

I'd let her go.... hate it, but I'd do it.

[MommyToAshley]

You know, by June, all this war stuff might be over with. Of course, there is always the risk of retalliation -- but I think there will always be that risk. This is just a different society we live in.

So, have you made a decision yet or are you still pondering this one?

[ashade75]

Thanks for your advise mommy and madaise.

Brittany really wants to go, so unless things get worse I think I am going to let her make this decision. I think she has taught me something this time!