Find No Enemy

I, like you, are heartbroken, distressed, and calling for answers and justice this week. That a child walking from the store with skittles and tea could be gunned down for ANY reason, in ANY city in this country, is appalling. I don't know what happened. I do know that when I heard the 911 call I was convinced that the person yelling was not being aggressive - he was pleading and terrified. Now I hear that the voice has been identified as Zimmerman's, not Martin's. A thorough investigation is certainly called for. And another issue has got my attention.

AP writer Jesse Washington wrote about the Black Male Code, and that in the wake of Trayvon's murder, he was compelled to explain it to his son - all too early in his opinion.

"As I explained it, the Code goes like this: Always pay close attention to your surroundings, son, especially if you are in an affluent neighborhood where black folks are few. Understand that even though you are not a criminal, some people might assume you are, especially if you are wearing certain clothes.

Never argue with police, but protect your dignity and take pride in humility. When confronted by someone with a badge or a gun, do not flee, fight, or put your hands anywhere other than up.

Please don’t assume, son, that all white people view you as a threat. America is better than that. Suspicion and bitterness can imprison you. But as a black male, you must go above and beyond to show strangers what type of person you really are."

I love this - except for the father's need to relate his advice to skin color. That saddens me for all of us. These are good words! Let me first say that as a single, middle-aged woman,(who has been attacked) I am wary and watchful of ANY man (or male bigger than me) who is coming at me hunkered down in a hood - I don't care what color he is, or what neighborhood, state, or country he is from.

"Protect your dignity and take pride in humility"...Brilliant! Yes and amen! Right or wrong we are judged by our appearance, demeanor, and behavior. It's common sense not to get too distracted by friends or activities; to look around and be aware of your surroundings and what is happening around you at all times. Don't argue with police or other accepted authority figures. Be respectful - assertive but not aggressive.

Young people congregating in a parking lot or park, etc. will be viewed with suspicion; suspicion of drugs, vandalism, rowdiness, or just general nuisance. It just is. Prove yourself trustworthy and above suspicion. Show people "what kind of person you really are."

When oh when will we get past skin color or ethnicity? Every one of us is made in the image of Almighty God. Every one of us is beautiful, valuable, and gifted. My prayer is that we begin to live as if it is SO.

"Just to me it all seems like insanity. Why must I rob you of your humanity to feel good about mine...
The only way we can ever change anything is to look in the mirror and find no enemy."
-Akala- "Double Talk"
Laus Deo,
Beth