Good morning gentlemen, We have had discussions on reaching out to help and lead others to becoming gentlemen. I know many of us have that mindset that “how can I lead when I am not there yet?” But what better example than for others to see your growth first hand? Sure you’re going to make mistakes but for someone to not only see you make that mistake but to take ownership and correct it, is more of an example than anyone can imagine. Letting a person see you as human, foul able, and take ownership then see you correct it, is the mark a leader and a gentleman. Another aspect of leading by example that we all as men and humans fall short of is listening completely. We all think that we do; reality, when you look back at previous conversations that you had you will find that at some point during that person talking you stopped listing and started thinking, formulating your response or your story, or both. When take the time and fully engage in what the other person is saying, we need to give our full attention to them put away our phones, face them directly, make eye contact, and give undivided attention. Also be honest and share your experiences, your success and your failures, this lets them know that you are not perfect, you understand their plight, and you can relate to their struggles and challenges. Don’t be afraid to say you do not know, many of times people will ask me something and I am the first to say I do not know, but I will make every effort to get the answer to their questions. Here are some key points that might help you when giving pointers to someone starting out. 1. Learn to control your emotions 2. Stand your ground, even when you stand alone. 3. Build a mindset so strong, no insult can shake it. 4. Walk away from people who drain your energy. 5. Never beg for attention, you’re undeniable 6. Protect your peace like it’s your last asset. 7. Speak only when your words hold weight. 8. Work like you’re broke, even when you’re rich. Gentlemen, we can make a difference in the lives of people around us and encourage and inspire young men to become gentlemen.

My apologies for talking about something so serious, but well . . .People sometimes ask me what advice I would give future teachers, and it is this. If you do your job correctly, you will have trouble functioning some nights because of stuff the students tell you about their own life. The students deserve that support, and someone they can reach out to, but all future teachers must prepare. I have my students do personal narratives, and today a student wrote a 7.5 page paper that detailed, among other things, numerous instances of sexual assault. It fills me with such rage and grief, I have trouble processing it. What worsens matters is I have received many such narratives since I started doing this assignment two years ago. If you want to know why I devote my Sundays to cooking for students, this is part of why. I want to be able to provide some light in what is often a dark tunnel for my students. And to all the men and young men out there, never forget what it means to be a real man. Protect the innocent, give them a shoulder to cry on, and give them a space where they are safe and valued.