Just as I was about to start my college career, I had an instructor advise the new interns, “no pity parties!” I was so empowered by that and I called upon those words when things got tough.
In the last few weeks, this advice has resonated louder than ever before, especially as I spend more time in Overtown. You can’t help to wonder about justice and mercy when you see the faces of the people walking the streets, some just laying against an uninhabited building. You can see idleness, hopelessness, weariness, fearfulness; each soul carries a real story. You don’t have to be empathetic to see pain. You may see people who are harmed or made to suffer from an act, circumstance, agency, or condition -victims, as the dictionary would define them. Some residents would refer to themselves as victims.
BUT, I am so pleased to say that there are some warriors in Overtown! People who will not throw a pity party, people who dare not call themselves victims! Strong women, young and old, who are taking a stand to keep their homes safe, they are protecting their children from the drugs and gangs that pull their focus away from their studies, they are brave enough to speak up for what is right and prepare a legacy. There still are dedicated police officers patrolling the streets of Overtown in pursuit of justice. They risk their lives every day for the sake of the people striving to break the cycle of poverty. There are still community leaders who stand ready do their part.
Are you prepared to remove yourself from the “victim” category? Are you prepared to do justice, love mercy?
The victory party begins with your decision!
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