People today tend not to want to talk about where they stand – mostly, they don’t want to get in an argument. But I think that if you have a well-thought-out belief, you should stand and be passionate about it. Here’s mine:
· I’ve thought long and hard about the importance of helping those who’ve earned and want a second chance to be able to get it; and I’ve worked at and advocated for that for 30 years. This helps people transitioning from the judicial system to regain a productive place – in their families, in their communities, and in society.
· Now I’ve recently been introduced to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), run by District Courts in every state –organizations of volunteer advocates assisting foster kids to get what they need to make it through the challenging times in their young lives. This gives foster kids in their formative years a boost to help their potential for success and not fall into the judicial and penal systems.
· Both are equally important. They represent attempts to help improve both ends of this extended issue. Professionals involved in each of these programs need help – they need volunteer advocates, role models, mentors, job coaches, and donors … and things (read: jobs) for the individuals they’re helping to do (because, as you mother probably told you: “idle hands make mischief”).
Everyone who has enough of what they need should consider giving something back. Something that they’re passionate about. I’m passionate about this. Stand and be passionate about something and help move it in the right direction today. [1]
Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. (1841 – 1935): American jurist who served as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1902 to 1932.
[1] If the goals of either of these programs interest you, contact me – I’d love to chat. (arte808@gmail.com)
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