By State Representative, Leon D. Young
Leon D. Young
Children have two parents for a reason. Granted, it’s a biological necessity, in terms of procreating the species. But, just as important, two parents provide a child with a sense of personal identity and emotional stability, both critical elements in promoting a healthy maturation into adulthood.
Unfortunately, too many of our children are growing up in households without a father being present or void of a male role model. By in large, single moms have done (and continue to do!) an awesome job of rearing their children. However, they are forced to wear a myriad of hats. These moms succeed in inculcating many valuable life lessons, but teaching a boy how to become a man is not one of them.
There was a time when “extended family” (either biological or communal) willingly stepped into the breach in providing much needed assistance to families with children at-risk. Family members or neighbors would come forth and take a child under their wings or redirect a child engaged in delinquent behavior.
Unfortunately, there is no real sense of community today. People, family members included, are reluctant and fearful about getting involved with our young people. Consequently, too many of our youth (who lack adequate parental involvement) are being left to their own devices that often results in community mayhem.
If we truly want to make a difference in uplifting our community, we must do a better job of loving, protecting and inspiring our children. In the final analysis, we all suffer (as a community) when a child is prevented from realizing his of her full potential.
There’s so much truth to the African proverb: It takes an entire village to raise a child. Mentor a child … and make a profound difference!