A Picture Is Worth 1,000 Words

Happy Tuesday #Jontourage,
 
 Welcome back to the “Classy Gent Chronicles”, where staying classy is the only way to be. In this week’s edition, read how an Instagram message broke my heart into several pieces.

So a few months ago, I shared about me being on the cover of a local newspaper.... my student commented on my Instagram saying "wanna know the best part bout this...you're still alive".

The next day, I asked him what he meant by that. He shared that where he is from, the only time you see a young black man on the cover of a newspaper is when he is wanted by the police or when he's been killed. My heart broke for him not because that's his perception, but because that's been his experience. Some of my students always tell me they can't believe I'm in my 20's because many of the people they know in their 20's still run the streets. That's the sad reality of our society.

Growing up in the suburbs of Fort Washington, MD, I realized how blessed I was. Although all communities have problems including mine, we were not plagued with the constant news of youth deaths. I have been blessed to say that none of the friends have been killed. Although death is a part of life, is it never a good thing when you do not make it see your 30th birthday due to violence.

That conversation will always stick with me. It's my inspiration to keep grinding out here. I want them to see positive black men out here who are be honored while living, not only in death. Here are three tips better in our communities:

1. Report crimes when you see them. All cities/towns have an anonymous tip line if you do not feel comfortable giving your name.
2. Recommend mental health help for people (especially youth) who have been through stuff.
3. Get involved. Communities that are very engaged statistically have a lower crime rate. If there is nothing to do, plan something. Be a part of the solution.

​I pray for the healing of our young people.  They have been exposed to way too much way too soon.  Some of our children have seen more trauma by 18 than many of us have seen in a lifetime.  

Moral of the story: We have got some work to do y'all.

Remember, in order to live out your dreams, you have to think it, feel it, live it! Until next time, stay classy...

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