Lessons From an Airplane Stewardess

Each time we fly, we hear the announcement that if the oxygen masks come down, we should FIRST put on our mask before helping a child put on their mask.

Why? Because we need oxygen to act, and to think clearly. But there is another reason that is often not mentioned. When a child sees an adult do it, they will also want to do it. If an adult considers the action to be normal and essential, the child will also.
Children can be confused and feel guilt in times of disaster when they realize that they are not behaving properly like they used to. We need to help children recognize that their unusual behaviours are normal, temporary and will pass.
How?  By demonstrating that in our life!  Even while we are experiencing our tears, flashbacks, emotional ambushes, outbursts, and physical effects on our bodies, we need to show them in our words and through our actions that we also believe this will pass. If this is your first traumatic experience you may doubt that. Trust the experts. Trust God and His word. Act in faith.
. . . but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31