On Race and the Future of America
My thoughts...
Number One – these current situations are very sad and reflect a great need for justice, understanding, repentance, and forgiveness. The white community needs to do several things including: listening, grieving, asking forgiveness, and seeking restoration. In other words, it is ok to say, “we were wrong.”
Number Two – this situation needs to be discussed openly in the white community without a lot of “yeah, buts” and reasons why. If someone you love is grieving, grieve with them. That is done best by listening first...and then listening some more.
Number Three – it’s impossible to quantify the “privilege” I have received during my life by being white. I am, however, willing to admit that it is significant and I desire that same privilege to be afforded my black and brown friends who I love as my own family.
Number Four – I have reached out to my friends, allies, and strategic partners in the black community and told them directly that I am sorry for their loss and sense of deep grief, that I do think black lives matter, and that I am 100% committed to praying and acting for a real solution that stands the test of time.
Number Five – We are literally hundreds of years behind on this issue in America. This should have been solved a long, long time ago, so let’s finally come together and get it done. In other words, we can do better. We MUST do better. If my 15-year old daughter should choose at some point to marry a black man, I would hope she could do so in an America that doesn’t sneer.