Crazy Times

I have avoided posting much during the pandemic lockdown. Enough other people were taking care of putting up in- home workouts and bodyweight training videos and articles so I didn’t feel the need. But now after the bad police incident in Minneapolis and the subsequent riots across the country, there is a need to talk about health and especially mental health. My County in Pennsylvania was just ready to open up, Go Green according to the Governor’s mandates. When this all happened, so after being locked down for 3 months now everyone has to worry about getting caught up in a protest gone bad. That is enough to depress anyone. the incident was horrific the police officer’s actions caused the death of Mr. Floyd. The other officers in the vicinity should have interceded and come to the aid of the victim. But they stood silent and by their failure to do the right thing it went really bad. The police officers were wrong and should be held criminally liable but that in turn does not excuse the lawlessness that followed. Doing the right thing is not solely the responsibility of those in charge but also the responsibility of all those in a civil society. Some bad police officers doesn’t mean that all cops are bad so it is inexcusable for the riots. Of course I approve of the ability to organize and participate in demonstrations but not of the property damage and looting that became part of the demonstrations. The police and the Judicial system needs to “police” their own and ensure that everyone is treated equally under the law. After 9/11 police forces were militarized to better fight the threat of terrorism that was thought to be coming ashore. That shifted the police role and subsequently has created a bigger schism between the police and society. The politicians aided this shift and they should be held accountable as well. But, the black community is also responsible for encouraging lifestyles that go against a civil society. Police have long been viewed as the enemy and the gangster lifestyle if not promoted excused and accepted. Do the right thing is paramount at this point. Blacks should be willing to see the change they want and then participate in that change. That means more black community members being willing to become police officers and help police their communities and that means to help hold those inside and outside of police departments accountable. Be the change you want to see. This from an old white guy frustrated with the current events . While I do believe that things have changed for the better from when I was growing up in the 60s and 70s. Much more change is necessary and the status quo is no longer acceptable. We owe it to ourselves and the community and nation to do better and be better people. Look in the mirror and ask what can I do. Doing even little things much like even doing short bouts of exercise will improve your outlook and possibly your communities as well.