I had a purplish bike in third grade. I’m not sure where it came from – likely a hand-me-down from someone. My dad was a minister so lots of folks invested in our family as a thank you for his care of theirs.
I was a kid who lacked self-confidence. When Scotty Cannon, who had hair on his chest by age 10, got hold of the dodgeball, I simply ran off the blacktop. I was smart enough to know that I did not like pain and that if Scotty nailed you, the word Spaulding could be embedded on your chest for days.
On my way home from school one day, a large guy one year older, stopped me on Skycrest Drive in my hometown of Fayetteville, NC. He stood in front of my bike and pulled out a switchblade. He informed me that he was going to slash my tire. I’m not sure how I responded, but it was likely, “Yes sir.”
Interestingly, it was Scotty who happened to be walking by and came to my rescue. He told the guy to leave me alone. No one talked back to Scotty.
I’m thankful I didn’t have social media to amplify what I already perceived about myself – that I was not cool. It was depressing enough to assume much less to have a barrage of proof minute by minute in the palm of my hand.
I surely could have used a strong YMCA program in those days - a place where strong role models gave me high five’s and encouraged me in the areas where I excelled (not dodgeball); a place where friendships were strategically encouraged; a place where even goofy kids like me felt welcome.
The YMCA mission compels us to build spirit, mind and body FOR ALL - not simply for cool kids (although they are welcome), not just for those who can financially afford our services, not just for kids who have two parents at home in the evenings to ensure the homework is complete – but FOR ALL.
I am grateful for a staff that pours into our members and program participants and who really love people. I am grateful for volunteers and donors who give generously of their time and resources to ensure the Y can meet community needs.
We will vigorously support children and teens in the coming year so that all find belonging, so that all strive to make good decisions, so that all feel self-worth. We each have a role. I encourage you to lean in to support children and youth you run into. They need us all.
