For My Boys
It Takes A Whole Village to Raise Up a Child African proverb
In America, there are certain animal and bird species classified as
endangered by the Department of Interior. This label is assigned to these species because
they become scarce due to adverse environmental conditions. They would become extinct but
for laws and protective measures to ensure their survival. But what about children? Why
are we as a county, a community and a state not enacting laws and measures to protect our
children, especially the male of the species?
A travesty is occurring in that we have
dismissed these young men under my care under the guise of direct file, which in essence
is the destruction of our future.
One of my special gifts is the gift of encouragement to help our
children identify the strengths and gifts that they are unaware of possessing.
Fastidiously, each day I set my sights on shaping and revamping the lives of our troubled
children. This process is a labor of love and so very rewarding. My heart speaks to them
individually and collectively as I attempt to enable them to transform and redirect their
lives to become productive and holistic young men. Together, let us inspire their desire
to discover how very special and valuable they are.
Umuntu ngumuntu ngabanye, ngabantu Motho ke motho ka batho
This is an African proverb that succinctly captures the humanity upon
which a sense of community is founded. Each person’s humanity is ideally expressed
through his or her relationship with others, particularly children.
America’s massive social and racial breakdown requires that we
come together for the sake of saving our children.
Carol Wilson-Sharp
