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Like you, I have felt deep sorrow about the death of George Floyd and the accompanying hurt it has caused in our communities and country. Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated incident and people are tired and angry.
In reality, this isn’t a black issue but rather one we should all care about because we’re part of the same family of God. I’ve thought about what I can do to help as a father, friend, church leader, and business executive.
Last night we talked as a family. My young daughters are confused as to why racism exists. My middle daughter became emotional talking about how we’re all one flesh. My oldest said she doesn’t understand how we could still be dealing with these issues.
Yesterday I decided to start calling or texting black friends, colleagues, and fellow church members: an executive in our company, a single mom finishing up her degree, a young professional, a bishop in our church, etc.
I expressed my sorrow, listened to their frustrations and fears, and reconfirmed my friendship and support. Every one of these individuals spoke about their children with love and concern about their future.
Instinctively, parents want their children to have the opportunity to plow in clean soil free from the challenges and hurt of the past. These shared desires speak to our being part of the same family.
May we be united and rise above injustice, division, and hate of any kind. And may we expect our leaders to appeal to the best within us, promote peace, and ensure the fair and equitable distribution of law and justice.
And tweets are fine but I encourage you to also have real conversations in your homes, families, churches and places of work. Doing so has blessed my life this week even as I search for additional ways to help.
