 One of a Police Officer’s greatest rewards might surprise you. It is a note from a child.
During our recent Police Week efforts in my hometown, I put out the request for notes and pictures from children. Several classrooms participated and the bundle of cards I picked up from schools would have heartened your own spirit for America. I concluded, after reviewing them before handing them off, that instead of listening to the media we need to listen to children.
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 No one is justifying the horror that took place with Tyre Nicholas at the hands of several Police Officers in Memphis, Tennessee. The galley of outstanding Officers throughout our nation are still in shock, and embarrassed at the bad actions of a few. They know, like the majority of Americans know, what unfolded is not a true reflection on the heart and quality of service of Law Enforcement in America.
Any wise, critical-thinking citizen should be asking deeper questions beyond the fervor and click-bait headlines. We need to step back and ask ourselves, “This is so out of character of law enforcement: what happened? How did this scenario manifest and develop? What can we learn from it as citizens who appreciate the service of Law Enforcement?” As a civilian who is not shy about her support of police, I am 100 miles away from truly understanding the day to day job of Law Enforcement Officers. Personally, I believe that 98.99% of Officers are outstanding civic servants and community members. They - more than anyone else - want the ill-behaved officers off the job.  Note: We share this with you on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Please let Officers know today (January 9) and every day that you appreciate them! We forget the influence we have as citizens, taxpayers, parents, and business owners among our elected officials. For too long citizens have abdicated their role as “civic participant” and have lost the understanding of how our system of government works. It is beneficial to our wellbeing to remember: we are a nation of the people, by the people, for the people. And those who sit in local elected offices are there to represent us. So the question should be poised to all Michigan citizens: do your local leaders know where you stand on Law Enforcement?
In Michigan, there are 83 counties and collectively house over 600 County Commissioners. Each County has a board of elected leaders who make decisions on how things should be run in their individual counties. Their votes and decisions influence policies in the Health Departments, how money will be spent on parks and recreations, and to me one of the most important: they determine how well our Law Enforcement are cared for and loved. Also, the City Councils influence the money that will be given to your local City Police. When you attend Council meetings you will often hear your local Police Chief weigh in with reports and answers to questions.  The Key Person at the epicenter of this holiday season, Jesus Christ, has a powerful statement noted in John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
The Savior we recognize and remember this holiday season, born in a humble community, who lived among the everyday citizens of his time, would go on to choose a profession - a task, a role - that would demand for Him, His very life. He was born, He lived, and He died so that we might know eternal life. He gave of Himself so that we might possess something better. He served so that we would know peace. He sacrificed so that we might be safe. They may not realize it yet but Law Enforcement are a living example among us of the love of God. Over the past few years, as Law Enforcement are being pummeled all around us, I have worked hard to rally citizens to demonstrate their support for America’s Law Enforcement. I was raised in a family that taught me: freedom is not free, responsibility is part of life, and many serve so that I might enjoy convenience. These lessons laid a strong foundation in me to honor and celebrate Law Enforcement. Sadly, in my day, it has become a profession that is not understood and gravely under-appreciated. Matthew and Jessica YascoltThey are residents of East Michigan, small business owners, and parents to two boys. They feel passionate about making sure their boys grow up to recognize the important role Police play in healthy communities.  In today’s day and age, our children are bombarded with information from pop culture, music, the internet, and even the toys we buy them. Trying to keep up on what they are exposed to can make your head spin; it certainly makes ours. We sure don’t have everything right when it comes to parenting, and make mistakes and learn every day. We realized early on, we cannot protect our children from opinions fed to them by music, pop culture, and the like. Instead, we must focus on instilling values and morals, that when presented with sinister information, they make a healthy choice. Why Supporting Our Police Matters Unfortunately, at some point, media, pop culture, music and more, started to oppose our law enforcement, labeling them as untrustworthy. It is so important to us that our children acknowledge this fallacy, while we as parents combat the stigma some parts of society have created. We recognized, even as parents to two little boys, our role in being a positive "framer" of the narrative: Police in the majority are amazing men and women who selflessly serve and sacrifice to keep us safe, to watch our backs as residents in the community, and to do what is necessary to preserve peace and justice. It is our job to help our little boys understand how to know right from wrong. While they are still in the very formative years, we want them to recognize Police as heroes to respect and revere not as the public narrative has conveyed of late. We want our little ones to know that what we have in this nation is not a given - it is because others have served, and sacrifice to keep us safe and free. And if our small family can do something to thank these heroes and move the message forward - we can contribute to making our nation - and community - better. How We HelpPolice Week Michigan is vital to us because we want all children in our great nation to know that law enforcement is there to help them, that they are safe to approach and come to if there is a problem or danger.
It is our pleasure to be part of this team and "new" community as citizens working to stand up, show up, and speak up for our Police. As young professionals who have been involved in networking, volunteering, and serving - we are confident that together - even a small few - can bring great, positive change. We could not be more optimistic for our children's future. Won't you join us? |
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