One day on the bus

Sometimes I wonder why is there so much ignorance amongst my so- called “people?” Why is it that when we are confronted with another perspective, to highlight our shame we, hate on another person. How come instead of asking the other person about their ways, we assume and stereotype. We label each other based our outer appearance and assume, assume, and assume that the difference has to be because they are wrong and we of course are always right. I have lived in Chicago my entire life and have watched what ‘street life’ does to so many people, my family included. I have seen that so called having street knowledge lead one to jail, abandon his family and end up a statistic. I have felt the grip of molestation. I have seen first hand those around me turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with life’s issues. I have also decided to be a responsible parent and not let my children become victims of street-life. This is for many a topic of discussion, and subject to scrutiny. I walk in a certain air, thinking that I am a little better than what’s around me, and for that I come off arrogant. This is only because I choose to have a different perspective in and for my life. I choose to do things a little differently, and I also choose to show and give my children more than what I have. Some might say that I am sheltering them this is not the case. For where we have lived for the last six years is as bad as it gets, and yet I try to take my children out of this environment to show them more, that there is more to life than hanging in the streets, having illicit sex, rapping and basketball. I have intentionally crafted a life for them simply by exposure to the arts, that will enable them to dream a little bigger and want for a little more than a good paying job. I graduated from college so my children could walk in pride knowing they have the same opportunity, I afforded. I am a first generation college graduate in my family because my parents wanted more and I want more for my children, is that so bad? I think not. In fact, if one were to sit and talk with me they would learn more about what really matters, Christ and the love he gave which is why I have an obligation to serve him by obedience in raising my children in the way they should go so they will not depart…is that so bad? Again, I say no! To those that think otherwise, I pray for your soul, I pray that you get the same chance to empower your children that I have and that you also teach them the ways of Christ. I hope that your soul finds rest with Christ…Amen