It's disheartening to hear people say that they have no hope- especially when that cry comes from the young. I saw a T.V. program the other night about street gangs and their "activities". A young man, about 18 years old, was talking to a mediator who had come to relieve a volatile situation.
"Man, I feel like leaving here and trying the other side. They say there's a Heaven...right?" He was expressing no hope for this life. His world is defined by the neighborhood blocks that trap his body and tries to cage his mind. He can see no further than out his window. We, as responsible adults, must spearhead ( and otherwise support)opportunities where inner city youth can travel, see other places and know that the world, indeed, moves and operates beyond their neighborhood confines.
Naysayers say, coming back into their impoverished communities after seeing another view of the world will lead to restlessness and an added discontentment. I disagree. Buds of hope sprout and take root, opening their minds to other possibilities, ie pursuing educational goals, positive extracurricular activities, mentoring, etc.
Yes, it's not as easy as it sounds. Hard work and money are big issues that come into play. But it all begins with a plan. What if money wasn't an issue...how would YOU answer this call?
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