The Story Of A Legacy

I remember a 14 year old gang member being celebrated for dying in a gunfight with the police. His friends and neighbors constantly talked about how he used to run from the police before he died. This became his story about his life after he died.

His friends and neighbors put up banners in his community with his picture on it to celebrate him. They also raised more than $10,000 for his funeral.

I remember thinking what if those banners were actually celebrating a young man graduating from high school.

What if his community raised more than $10,000 for his college scholarship fund instead of his funeral?

What if this 14 year old was celebrated in his community for his academic accomplishments instead of his criminal accomplishments?

What would the story of his life be?

The story of his legacy?

The community environment we grow up in shapes our lives along with our home and school environments.

There are 14 year old boys who will end up on the academic path or criminal path based on the encouragement and exposure they receive in their community.

It is true that what they see is what they will be.

It is also true that even young boys are creating a legacy.

They are building a legacy that is shaped by the environments they are exposed to in their homes, schools and communities.

That 14 year old gang member didn't have the opportunity to grow up and live a long life.

But he still left a legacy.

The story of his legacy may influence other youth to choose the criminal path to receive the attention and encouragement they desire.

They are building a legacy that is shaped by seeing other criminals being celebrated in their community. They are constantly exposed to negative role models instead of positive role models.

The story of his legacy may influence other youth to choose a more positive path in life.

They are building a legacy that is shaped by exposure to positive role models and mentors who are showing them what is possible for them.

They know that they are the author of their life story, and are creating their legacy through the choices they make during their lives.

What will the story of your legacy be?

The Building Legacy Brunch is a collective healing experience for Black men and boys that will nourish your body, mind and spirit with delicious food and healing conversations!

There are a few seats left, so reserve your spot now at:

BlackMenHealing.com/brunch

Special Bonus!: Your ticket purchase will also sponsor a free Youth ticket for Black boys to attend. You can choose to donate your Youth ticket to a Black boy on the waiting list if you are not bringing one with you.

Reserve your spot at: BlackMenHealing.com/brunch