I have a wonderful, beautiful, beloved 24 year old son who likes to roll down the street with his sunroof open, windows down, blast his tunes and enjoy himself after putting in a hard days work. My thoughts turned to him as once again I watched in horror as terrifying images of police brutality flashed on my tv screen, and once again I listened in horror as attorneys for the accused justified the actions of the officers. Once again I find myself praying for the City of LA because when the officer in question is acquitted, LA will once again erupt in riots, flames and looting. This is a time when our nation needs to bond together to fight the common enemy of terrorism - but what happens when the terrorist has a badge, a billy club and hatred in his heart? I have had several conversations with my son concerning being a law-abiding citizen without judgment, malice or prejudice against any group of people, and that all people deserve to be evaluated on their individual merit - and he is just that kind of human being. How can I tell him that he needs to continue to pledge his allegience to a system that acquitted the officers who beat Rodney King and tortured Abner Louima? A system in which many regard my son as less than human simply because of his gorgeous chocolate brown skin? What happens to my son the next time an officer stops him for playing his music too loudly? What do I tell my son who for the first time in his life has fear and hatred in his heart? I suppose there are no real answers - I just had to get it off my chest. Thanks 4 listening.
[ July 12, 2002, 09:21 AM: Message edited by: Sandye ]
All you can do is the best you can do ... but the best you can do is enough.