We can no longer run from a reality that has come to define us, but we do have the capacity to transform it into the inclusive society that we’re capable of being. This requires mutual love and respect for others and in that we shall find a greater measure of love and respect for ourselves.

One of the main reasons there is so much unrest in our world is a lack of vulnerability when it comes to decency and respect for the rights and perspectives of those who are different from ourselves. When police officers kneeled in the face of protest by citizens hardened by the confines of racism and brutality and everyone cheered, it was because it demonstrated vulnerability, humility and showed what a powerful force they are in connecting people with the human spirit that resides within. 

As an African American male who has been harassed by police and detained for no reason on numerous occasions, I felt the sting of what happened to George Floyd on that horrific day. The first thing I thought after witnessing his horrible murder is the same one that many African American males felt. I thought, “That could have just as easily been me!” 

I’ve spent the last twenty years wondering what has to happen to shine a light on this behavior and bring it out into the open? We will all be forever indebted to George Floyd for providing that light. Let’s pray that his death provides us with a beacon of hope so that Dr. King’s I Have A Dream speech was not given in vein. We must go on from here wiser and more humble because this event along with 911 and the current pandemic clearly shows us all just how vulnerable we really are. 

It has never been more true, vulnerability has the power to unveil the best parts of humanity, bring us all together and teach us how to deal with mistakes and pain in a way that makes us more loving, thoughtful and courageous.