5. That we as African Americans/Blacks need to respect one another more. I’ll admit, I’ve been accustom to wearing this shell that screams “Don’t talk to me.”

But we can’t do that to one another. So instead of making one another feel like she/he’s not allowed to speak to me, I smile. Now I understand why some of the the older generation African Americans acknowledge each other as brother and sister. We have to unite instead of competing!

4. Having to explain to my African American 8 year old the issue of police brutality, inequality and how powerful his brown skin is. Children see things so pure. Unfortunately it seems we have to mature them earlier than expected because of how corrupt the world is. But sitting with him explaining how things may happen in his future and how to respect authority more than his friends of other races, was not an expected conversation in his childhood.

3. I need to watch the news. I hate the news. Bad news anyway. But living with rose colored glasses isn’t the best. If tragedies like this were swept away, it’d continue to happen and it’ll look like we don’t care for one another.

2. Corporate America isn’t ready for conversations like this tragedy. And honestly it may not be the best conversation to have at the water cooler. Although realize everyone may have different opinions. I learned that if I feel the need to speak on it, to remain calm, respectful, open minded and genuine. So when I speak on it, others will know why it’s so heavy on my heart but they’ll also see that it won’t effect my performance in the workplace.

1. People actually thought racism was over. Regardless if Brown’s death was a result of a racist cop or not, the tragedy ultimately exposed what racism is still around us from others. Instead of entertaining it with anger and sarcasm, let’s band together as different races and actually do things together. Let’s join forces in the business aspect. Let’s break barriers. ❤️

The tragedy ignited a flame in me to want to do something. I did a little bit but I still want to help. There are plenty of organizations formed in the community. Now is the time to put in work. Realize the talents you have, bring those talents to the forefront!Police brutality isn’t new. Racism isn’t new. But society is lost and hurting. I never read so many comments from people doubting God. Doubting prayer. Yes, faith without works is dead. But we don’t know the result. God knows. He knows how the story will end. So you just focus on how you play a part. Will you be a active voice? Will you exude positivity? Be careful on how you react and speak on the topic as well. Words are powerful. If you scream doubt into the atmosphere, that is what you’re feeding your community. We are hungry. Feed us peace. Feed us hope. Feed us unity.

Justice is being served. People are being delivered from dark places in their lives as a result of this. Slowly but surely, people are coming together.

I never thought someone who I didn’t know could affect me so. Until I looked at my son.

Prayers for Mike’s family.

Prayers for St. Louis.

Prayers for this corrupt world.