The verdict is in on the case that has polarized individuals for more than a year. The loss of the life of Trayvon Martin. The speculation of what the jury would decide and how long it would take for them to come to that decision is all over now.

Whether you voiced an opinion or not I am reasonably certain you have thoughts about the Zimmerman trial. While some may agree with the verdict of not guilty, surely no one (of sound mind) is without regret that Trayvon’s family will no longer be able to visit with him in the flesh.

George Zimmerman has had his “day in court”—the jury has spoken. How will you respond?

Unlike seventeen-year-old Trayvon, you will be able to plan your response. You have an opportunity to rehearse the possible outcome of your actions.

Did you feel a knot in your stomach when you heard about the verdict? Did you feel stressed or angry? Are you thinking about how others will react? Did you decide to keep your opinion to yourself? Will you feel differently about those that do not agree with you on the issue? Will you find a nonviolent way to support your heartfelt opinion on this matter? Will you be a positive influence on those who might see violence as a realistic response to the verdict?

Loving yourself means that you seek God’s perspective on these real life situations and respond, in love.

As we move forward from this event, it is one life, yet his life and everyone involved, represents so much more. There are so many families like the Martins and the Zimmermans all over this, “land of the free” and “home of the brave”. How can we lessen that number? How can we promote a sense of brotherly love in all communities? How can we see individuals for the content of their character rather than the color of their skin? How can we help youth to become responsible individuals that respect others and seek to find commonalities rather than differences?

The task belongs to the village and starts with you. Be informed on the laws, the issues and the policies that have an impact on you and your neighbor. Participate in jury duty, nonviolent protests and promotion of issues which speak to your heart. Be an agent for change by being part of the solution for the future. Pray and seek what God would have you to do. It is a process and while we will respond to the actions of this trial and what caused it to take place in the first place, it is healthier to mobilize toward the changes we desire to see.

No matter where you stand on the issue, let us work as individuals and collectively to engage an environment where justice is more likely to happen in the lives of all people. Search your heart and the word of God to uncover your role in the lives of the dear ones we lose every day because of unlovely acts.

Be it here in America, or around the world, when there is loss of life or its quality is diminished because of the acts of one human against another what role will you play? Is love evident in your life?

Take Inventory and Take Action! Allow your passionate feelings for righting wrongs to mobilize you to make changes in ways that will cause God to be pleased.

Love,

Deborah

“Lighting the path to loving your neighbor as yourself.”