Young Men and A Fatherless Generation

Like many I watched the trial of George Zimmerman. Unlike many, I had followed it from before the arrest. My issue is not which side you or I are on. Here are two young men, who have changed lives. One dead, the other most likely to be pursued for the rest of his life. There is no “innocence” here. A trial is a trial. The answer the answer. Do not presume you know which side I am “on.” You probably do not. I have had a number of people work to engage me. I am more concerned with where we go from here.

Today, I was visiting with my daughter and grandchildren. While I was there the local police showed up. Moments later an 11 year old boy was driven away. This young man is always polite, respectful and looks me right in the eye when we converse. But, for whatever reason, violence got the best of him. My prayers are with him, his family.

A few years ago, I watched a young man of 11 be carted away and put in state custody for violence and additional crimes. His parents were both known by me. Divorced, bitter, they brought their three children up in this atmosphere. He was pretty much a sitting duck.

Today I came home and there was a video of 3 young men involved in a shooting. Where were the parents, the grownups? Murder.

I believe in things like the Constitution, the right to carry, and justice. I am also very much aware of the scripture that cites, For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. (James 2:13)

The issue is less about justice (or perceived injustice) or mercy, but life. You must understand I have children, grandchildren. 2 of my grandsons never see their father. One has never. I have committed to be as much a dad as they can adapt to. Life is not fair! In my life when I was a child, I was violent. My brothers were as well. I get it. Our dad, an alcoholic, often was working tons of hours or passed out in his recliner. But I found something that made a difference in my life. His name was Jesus. Add to a male mentor or two and I was on my way to recovery.

The real issue is parenting coupled with the value of a father. My dad was often absent. Many of the young men I have counseled, visited in prison or walked through broken relationships, had no father of reputation in their life. I want to be clear. I know children with no dad in their life who have managed.

I could have had a different life. I could let others pick up where I left off or failed. But I decided to be a dad, to help out, to provide some male thought process and listening ears to young men, including my grandsons.

The big picture is we have young children growing up without a father. It is not just the shootings that occur, but it is the quality of life and choices. I did not know Martin or Zimmerman, but I have known a lot who look like them.

A friend posted the other day, “I believe he is not guilty, but I do not believe he is innocent.” No one was innocent in the eyes of the Lord. And yet it is His goodness that has been banked for those who will take. For me I just see it as another reason to keep on doing what I do. I hope you may consider joining me on this quest.