If I had a son he would look like Trayvon and here is my letter to him

Dear Son I am writing this letter to you with hope that you have a better understanding of this crazy world around you.   You probably have lots of questions on how a young African American named Trayvon Martin lost his life so young to the hands of a man who took "suspicion" to an extreme.

This has created a national outrage in the media.  As you hear the replay of this unfortunate incident you may embrace the notion of an eye for an eye and retaliation against those who practice hate crimes.   I want you understand as Martin Luther King once stated that an eye for an eye leaves everyone blind and remember that vengeance is left to God.  This is not to say that you cannot stand up to injustices by peaceful protest through signing petitions, prayer, and participating in marches.   

Incidents like these will remind you that this country still deals with issues regarding race.  There has been progress, but racial profiling still remains an issue.   Unfortunately some attitudes of the "young black dangerous thug" are heightened when you hear of stories of misguided black youth who are involved in black on black violence.  Resist the urge to grow bitter over this.  You cannot control others attitudes but you can always control how you respond.

You may hear individuals on Tom Joyner or on the The Grio stoke fear of growing up & being a black male in society, however understand that God has not given you the spirit of fear and worry.  Worrying only drains the energy that you need for today and God has already ordered your steps and is handling your tomorrow.

Always conduct yourself in a manner that is worthy of a gentlemen and never reinforce negative stereotypes.  Show that you are a person who has respect and compassion for others.  Always listen to those in authority and help a friend in need.  If you are ever pulled over by a police officer, display a calm and cool demeanor.  Contrary to what you may hear in some forms of music or videos women are not hoochies, hoodrats, or the B Word.  They are someone's daughter, niece, or sister and should be viewed as such.

To conclude, one day you may be in a position of authority to hire and injustice is always a Two-Way Street.   I want you to keep in mind that we all can be tempted to generalize and judge groups based on single encounters.  This in itself is an injustice, prejudice, and unfair.   We all can be immature when it comes to practicing the quality of being just.  Even though society can be unjust, God always honors justice.  Take care and I love you always son!