Uniting and Igniting Change

The brutal and inhumane killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, by Derek Chauvin, a white police officer has sparked outrage and massive protests in the US and around the world.

 

Forced to the ground, Chauvin placed his knee on Floyd’s neck for over 8 minutes as he gasped for air, saying “I can’t breathe.” Three other officers did nothing to stop it – allowing him to be cruelly murdered by a fellow officer.

 

This tragic incident, which played out before our eyes, has triggered a global outcry for change. For police reform – new policies, training and procedures. But will that change the police culture?

 

Time magazine reports that a black person is killed by a police officer at the rate of more than one every other day. Many other credible reports are higher. It’s going to take more than a change in police procedures to heal the depth of this deep-rooted problem.

 

President Obama says we are living through “an incredible opportunity for people to be awakened. There is a change in mindset that’s taking place.”  I agree.

 

Our mindset is our collection of thoughts and beliefs that shape our lives – how we think, feel and act. Witnessing the horrific murder of George Floyd has caused a seismic shift in the mindset, heart and soul of the masses. It has created a heightened awareness and urgency for change.

 

Change Comes from Within

 

What we are witnessing is the transformation of people from all walks of life, a rich array of colors, cultures, communities and countries coming together as one. Unified in thought and spirit. The healing we are seeking is taking place within.

 

Hundreds of years of deep-rooted sadness, hopelessness and rage is being transformed into an empowered mindset that will no longer tolerate abuse. It demands justice, accountability and respect. The collective will of the people has spoken and will continue to speak out. Ultimately it will win for external power is no match for internal power.

 

Yes, we need police reform but policies do not heal. We cannot fool ourselves to think we can change the mindset of a cop or anyone. Empathy does not happen from reading a training manual. It takes place through feeling someone else’s pain and suffering. Collectively this is what the majority of protesters feel and what they’re fighting to end.

 

Once and for all.