A teacher told me that one hand raised in a classroom represents dozens of hands, not raised, who have the same question. We received an email from a mother of Black boys. I thank her for spurring me to find words for the indescribable.
Q: How can I trust the system when I feel it works against me, my boys, my people?
A: Law enforcement is a system that has to earn trust. George Floyd's death forfeits trust. There are officers interested in earning trust and there are untrustworthy cops. The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) makes a statement that also speaks to your question.
Q: What can or should I do to be more proactive?
A: Register and attend the nearest citizen's police academy.
Q: How do you address this issue with your own son?
A: We use history to guide. He knows about my trauma as a teenager and the impact on me as an adult. He and his sister have accompanied me to the police station, on support raising appointments and to preaching event that included my testimony.
They've been in rooms full of cops and we've talked about their feelings. We discuss deaths of black men by police, remind that the world is fallen and that we truly need a Savior.
Thank you for sharing Alex. Because when you share you are doing two things. The first is that your forcing us to think literally how we would handle the same situation. The second is that you allow us to see the situation throw your eyes. And as well you keep us informed of situations. So thanks for your time, and teaching us how to see,what others see
ReplyDeleteIf there is anything worth giving thanks, it's the work of the Spirit in our lives. Your encouragement is appreciated.
DeleteRev. Roger Mendenhall
ReplyDeleteThank you for checking in Rev.
DeleteThank you Alex!
ReplyDeleteWe thank the Lord Kathy!
DeleteAlex, I thank you for sharing these encouraging words and the experiences where you are informing your kids. I believe if we begin with revamping all of the police department across the board. I believe it is very difficult for the good cops to answer forthe bad cops. But,you must own up to it verily and clean house. So now here we are 😢
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your heart. Fresh ideas are needed. Each department has a local culture and many are hungry for community involvement. Get involved if you're able. Here we are indeed...trusting God is here with us.
DeleteThank you for fighting the good fight and not giving up. You are brave. I'm honored to be your friend.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sending words of life. I am not brave but I want to be obedient. Honored to be your friend too.
DeleteGod, is mindful of us when we are not mindful of ourselves. He has made a true testimony out of you, with your life story to help your people. Thank you for being a voice in the midst of adversity. Amen
ReplyDeleteA testimony is the confession of a witness. If you're witnessing God do anything, keep telling it. More than anything I do, continue confessing what you see the Lord doing. Your words are words of life and we're grateful.
DeleteThanks for sharing particularly as many do not understand these are lived experiences and powerful testimonies
ReplyDeleteCharles Corley
We praise God for your words of life Dr. Corley.
DeleteRev. Pickens III,
ReplyDeletePlease keep up the ministry God has entrusted you with, always making a difference wherever He places you to serve Him. Blessings to the Pickens with you.
Ventura, thank you for your blessing and encouragement. God is entrusting us with assignments in this season. May your hand be strengthened as you obey the Holy Spirit at home and on the mission field. Courage and a fresh infilling be yours.
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