Anyhoo, I came across some things about this kid, Derrion Albert in Chicago who was killed and was just saddened beyond belief. I remember kids in my middle school fighting. I remembered kids being so cruel and thinking that violence was the only way. What I saw when I watched the video were angry kids because they were afraid. Afraid of who they really were becoming because no one had the time or the outlet to tell them that who they were was ok. They swarmed this poor boy. The people who were taping were laughing at it initially and even after the fact. What was truly appalling is that no adult was present that I could see and if so, they didn't step in. I almost didn't watch the video but am happy that I did because it drove me to react in such a positive way. Yesterday, my sister invited me to be a part of a youth mentoring program which I signed up for and was accepted today. Middle and High School are such pivotal points in a child's development. No matter how strong minded a child can be they still yearn to belong in some way shape or form. There are kids whose parents aren't around or who are but don't have the means (time or $$$) to show them another view of life. The young woman who interviewed me asked what I wanted to share with the child with whom I am to be placed...I want to show children and anyone else who will listen that dreams are meant to be uncovered, nurtured and fulfilled. I want to help this child begin to see a more multifaceted picture of himself. I was initially apprehensive about volunteering because of my schedule varying so much. I made sure to share this concern (which they mirrored) in the interview. I jumped in anyway. They were willing to assist me and I promised to communicate. The point is that I've started to help. As Ghandi stated, I will "be the change [I] wish to see."
100.
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