Overcoming the Odds

I have written in the past about the plight of young black men whose lives have been cut short due to violence and a lack of hope for the future.  Today however, I want to share a success story, a story about a young man who possessed an inner fire that allowed him to overcome the many challenges of growing up in Oakland, CA.

His name is Mr. Wade.  I met Mr. Wade over two years ago at a company in Pleasanton, CA.  (I call him Mr. Wade because I have the utmost respect for him.)  Through the leadership of his teacher, Ms. Dixon, an opportunity was presented to allow students to visit this company and shadow its employees during their work day.  During this event I had the opportunity to speak with the students about their hopes and dreams.  I quickly noticed the energy emanating from one young man above all others, Mr. Wade.  He possessed a passion for life, a positive attitude and a vision of his future that set him apart.  I am not suggesting that he was better than every other student, but that his spirit was undeniable.  Believe me that‘s a quality that is rare these days.  My son Jordan and my daughter Ashtyn possess this quality, but that’s another post.

In spite of the neighborhood he grew up in, and the fact that he had to work extremely hard to resist many temptations, he has accomplished a rare feat for a young black man in today’s world.  He was accepted by, and is now attending university at Cal State Berkeley!

This accomplishment serves as a beacon of hope for others who have a dream of attending college. Recently, I found out that he is also mentoring other students.

If the black community has any hope for redirecting the negative path that it is on, it will take young men like Mr. Wade to lead the effort.  I am so proud to have met him and I know that he will make a significant contribution to his community and the world!