There are a lot of broken homes all across America. Families lives have been changed in a matter of seconds from the violence, prejudice, and callous disregard for the welfare of others. If I learned the most valuable lesson from The recent events such as the set up by Norfolk Police Department of the killing of Joshua Omar Johnson, and others that shared similar fates under a different set of facts, is the value of life and family. Many of us can go home and talk, hug, and kiss our loved ones, while others go to a home where there is one less family member sleeping safe in their room. We all spend so much time with bitterness and disgust for our fellow neighbor, but when they are gone, we wish for the opportunity to say at least good – bye. As a father, I look at the world and what I do a lot differently. It is no longer about what I want to do, but what is in my children best interest. Moreover, I have to consider that anything I act, speak, or take action on, in regards to the many issues that surround protecting our civil rights.
Secondly, I am troubled by our neighbors, family, and friends that are so easily willing to take a life, but are uneasy about taking the consequences of those actions. I have seen the toughest hard core self claimed criminals read letters of apology and cry to a judge for forgiveness that will never come. Two families, like so many families, all across this country has had to suffer and deal with these tragic events. We all, including myself, has to do better to end the petty grudges. If we are to do justice on behalf of anyone is to stand together for its resolve. Joshua, like so many others, should be consider all of our son, all across America. The many critics, in regards to statements that they have been made trying to label with prejudice the negative characteristics that they view of Mr. Johnson, are only a matter of time when they will seek others for good words of kindness, and people of faith that is unconditional. Some want favor under conditions. I will pray for them, just like I pray for each and everyone of you that such a tragic events does not have to be repeated.
In conclusion, If you have a beef, grudge, or any negative with anyone in your life, its time to come to terms, because tomorrow is not guaranteed for you or for me. U.S President Obama said it best, “If I had a son, he would look just like Trayvon!” Mr. Johnson was made in Gods image, just like all of us. Mr. Johnson, Mr. Trayvon Martin, Mr. Troy Davis, and countless others that has felt the weight and flaws of our justice system are our family, as I would hope to be treated by everyone as a member of their’s. In order for us to stop violence, we must be on the street, we must be talking to everyone on any street corner or whom we may walk bye, even if its to say good morning, and not just sitting in a room full of bureaucrats that are trying to save face and add another event to their resume. If we treat people like animals than thats how they are going to behave. We need to follow up. Furthermore, It is each and everyone of you responsibility to talk with your family. The rest is up to you.
Goodnight,
Merle Rutledge
Civil Rights Activist
Political Blogger
Political Consultant
Former Candidate for the Mayor of the Town of Chatham, Va
Also a son of everyone in the City of Norfolk, Va
Vote Michael J. Muhammad, for Mayor of the City of Norfolk, VA 2014
merletrutledge 