Originally posted on Facebook on Friday, April 23, 2021.
In Week 17 of 52 Weeks of Gratefulness, I give thanks for an unknown black man.
Yesterday, I attended a town hall meeting that was in response to a shooting in one of our community's parks. Though I was saddened by the event, I was encouraged by how, in the midst of intense emotion, our community came together to discuss the matter respectfully and peaceably. Though there's a lot we still have to work through, it was a testament to our leadership and the spirit of our community.
But the highlight for me, was learning of a black man that has been taking it up on himself, not only to mentor young men that come to the basketball courts in McKee park, but working to keep the area safe -sometimes de-escalating situations through compassion and mutual respect and other times standing between our youth and potential wrong-doers. In this most recent case, he had already left the courts for the day and unfortunately was not there to potentially prevent it. Nevertheless, his work speaks volumes about the difference a present, caring and intentional man makes in his community.
His act brings to mind for me Matthew 13:31-32, "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches."
His goodwill sown in work effects the lives of many, even people he didn't expect -like me. And, if a tree is bearing good fruit, it seems to me that we should be careful to nurture it and ensure it has everything it needs: sunlight (acknowledgement and celebration), water (material resources) and good soil (community support).
If anyone happens to know who this gentleman is, I'd greatly appreciate you sharing his name as I'd like to bless what he's doing.
Until then, unknown black man, I salute you. And, I'm grateful for you. #52WoG
EDIT 04/23/2021 05:06 PM: Thanks to Mayor Lynn Spruill the hero of this epic has been identified. His name is Mr. Tytus Brown. Please join me in celebrating and supporting his great work.