It is said that life is a dance and that the steps involved in that dance are the lessons we learn.
If we learn the lessons well, the dance will be smooth and seemingly effortless. If we do not learn them we will be uncoordinated and clumsy. I have always looked at the Southbay communities as one organism.
In essence, one body with many parts that gain proficiency in coordinating their participation with each other. Although we may have a diverse ethnic composition, we also have mutual reasons to become more than we are individually. No matter what our government may do to alleviate the perceived inequities that exist, it is our responsibility to work with one another to create an atmosphere that will thrive and grow in positive directions regardless of what happens elsewhere.
Being a product of the 50”s myself and growing up in Compton, I have seen changes within these communities that have moved me to the conclusion that the interactions between them require a more refined approach. We as a whole need to include all the facets of our community and that means, the youth, parents, businesses and city representatives.
The example that comes to mind most readily are the transitions we all experienced going from grade school to junior high (or middle school now) to high school and beyond. I remember meeting other kids from different areas of the city in each phase and the friendships or rivalries that developed.
There was always a bigger picture and growth in our view of where we lived. The thing that was most important about that time was the knowledge that was gained from those interactions and the missed opportunities that perpetuated our differences. I look forward to the time when our lessons will result in a smooth and effortless dance through the complexities of this life.
By: C. Gerald Crittendon
Guest Contributor
ReelUrbanNews.com
