Tag Archives: 100 years

Black Lives Matter

Arizona Man’s Police Encounter

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There has been a lot on the news about police brutality against unarmed civilians in this Great Nation. There have been countless video footage of law enforcement use of excessive force. On the other end of these cases usually were an African-American male. This causes a concerning in urban America for young black males. As a result the Black Live Matter Movement was born. Yes, I am in agreement, being a black male myself, that black lives do matter. While searching the internet, I came across a story that went against all that we have come to expect when encountered by law enforcement.

While on his way to his office to turn in his weekly paperwork, an African-American male was pulled over by Tuscon Arizona police officers (Roger 2015). The purpose of the stop was due to a broken tail light. There were two officers in the vehicle. He was wearing a hoodie and he was “strapped,” another term for being in possession of a firearm. The male explains how he was respectful to the officer and complied with all orders. The officers disarmed this gentleman, as a precautionary step in this process. After the officer ran a check on the gentleman’s name, registration, and insurance he returned with a surprise. The officer informed the gentleman that due to the way that he conducted himself, they were returning his firearm to him and only gave him a warning.

As we know, this situation could have gone a lot different. This gentleman which I could have been another incident of a justified homicide. The gentleman who I am referencing is Steven Hildreth Jr who serves our country as a member of the National Guard. After his experience, Mr. Hildreth went public to speak about how he appreciated this experience. The gentleman also pointed out that even when suspects are disrespectful, that it should not lead to death. He credits this successful outcome to being respectful with and cooperating with law enforcement. Mr Hildreth has a message that all police are “Not out to get us.”

I appreciate this story and hope that others can use this as an example of how to respond when confronted by law enforcement. I thank Mr. Hildreth for his courage and how well he conducted himself. I also thank the Tuscon, Arizona Police Officers for their professionalism. #BlackLivesMatter #AllLiveMatter

(Roger 2015) Jazmine Denise Roger, Armed motorist’s FB Post About Traffic Stop Goes Viral: “I’m a Black Man Wearing a Hoodie and Strapped.” October 30, 2015 Madame Noire, Retrieved from http://madamenoire.com/595891/armed-motorists-fb-post-about-traffic-stop-goes-viral-im-a-black-man-wearing-a-hoodie-and-strapped/

Check out my books “100 Years: A Journey to End a Vicious Cycle” and “These Are Your Flowers” available on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00TLXK5L6

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Helping Youth Through my Past

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I have made a number of mistakes in my life. My problems started during my early teenage years. Those mistakes have placed me in some very compromising and dangerous situations. Our youth are making some of the same mistakes that I made when I was a teenager. We now live in a technologically advanced society. Almost anything that we want is within reach through our devices; iPad, iPod, laptops, and smartphones. These are very useful tools which allows us to connect with others on a personal as well as in a professional level. The concern with more technology and resources comes the reality of having more opportunities to do different things. Drugs, pills, and sex are more available than in years past. A minor can meet and be lured by an adult predator, acting as a teenager online. This can happen within the comforts of a child’s home.

I encourage parents to work extra hard at being there as a “shield and guard” for your children. No, we can’t protect them from life and they will have to learn some things through experience. When noticing sudden changes in their behavior, then I urge you not to brush it off as growing pains. They might need your direct intervention and support at that very moment. We must work towards helping our youth make better decisions concerning their lives. I got into a lot of trouble by simply choosing to do the wrong thing. Teenagers now have assistance with the bombardment of the internet. I just encourage adults to be aware of the many challenges and offer guidance in the times of need.

“My hope is that by sharing my story, others will learn from my experiences and began to make better choices.” This is a quote by Author, Mark L Baynard,100 Years: A Journey to End a Vicious Cycle http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00TLXK5L6

 

 

Encouraging Words

The Words We Speak!

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Be very careful of the words that we speak in the ears of others. Words have power! This is especially true when it comes to our loved ones. Our loved ones can include our children, our spouses, our parents, and our friends. The love, respect, and appreciation which others have for us may cause them to hold our words in high regard. The power of our words can be used as a form of a teaching tool, an endearing gesture, as well as simply encouragement. The power of words can also be used as a weapon to tear down or even destroy another. This is played out in relationships each day. During those moments of disagreement, things are sometimes done and said in order to hurt the other. Once those words have been uttered, they can never be taken back. The effects of those words may continue to live in their hearts even after they have offered forgiveness.

Personally, I can remember words that my dad said to me many years ago. Some of those words were very encouraging while other words brought about shame and guilt. I can see a lasting effect in my life even as I attempt to overcome them. Once words have been spoken in the ears of others, they can’t be taken back. Yes, others may forgive but those words may forever live on. The power of those words have already hit them where it hurts, right in the heart!

Be mindful of the power that we possess through words. Use our words in order to bring the best out of those whom we say that we love by offering hope and encouragement for others.