Hope for Humanity

"Nobody who serves, nobody who fights for this country should have to fight for a job or a roof over their heads when they come back home," President Obama.  

When I was approached by FAMU's ROTC department to plan this event, I just knew I couldn't tread lightly. Most companies that put on events, usually have a ulterior motive. From increases in notoriety to even sale increases. I sat down with the department chair and asked what does the department want to gain from this event. His response was simple. "I want our soldiers to know that we are here for them." Nothing more and nothing and nothing less. I was very impressed.

He informed me that in the first 165 days of the year 2012, 164 people serving in the military committed suicide. That is about one per day.  This is highest it has been in ten years. In 2011 there were a total of 9,000 homeless veterans in Los Angeles alone. The morale of active duty soldiers and veterans is low, and Knight of Troops plans to help turn those numbers around.

Knight of Troops has partnered with with Joining Forces, created by Michelle Obama and Jill Biden, and is rolling out a brand new program at Knight of Troops. I can't disclose all the details yet, but the program will serve as a network of veterans and  current soldiers working together for all those who have served.

Even though the ROTC department only has one goal for the evening, they will still gain lots in the end. Coverage of this event will shine a positive light on department. People will be able to see how the organization is working for the betterment of FAMU's troops. 

Knight of Troops is just an event that will kick off a life long promise to serve those who have served us.

It was very difficult for me not to feel connected to this event because of how genuine they are. It's not everyday you meet people who want nothing more than to help others and gain nothing in return.

Sometimes, I hate explaining to others that after law school I will practice law in the public service sector. I have to hear that I'm not going to make a lot of money or I will not make enough to pay back law school loans. As mentioned in a previous post, I want to practice law for the Innocence Project in New York. I am very aware that I will never make six figures, and I think it bothers others more than it bothers me. 

My favorite quote is "Some people are so poor all they have is money." I was raised in a household where I was taught to never value money or material things. As long as you have a place to live and something to eat everyday, you are automatically blessed. This mindset has allowed me to view the world a little differently than my peers. 

I've always wanted to help people in some kind of way, and I know working for the Innocence Project I will change lives in a major way. People who have been wrongfully incarcerated usually have one thing in common. They are poor and can not afford "good" lawyers. It's not fair or morally correct that money can buy one's freedom. By working at the IP I know I can help those fighting for true justice.

When I die, I can't take money or materials with me. However, the lives I will affect with my legal work will always have a permanent imprint in this world. 

What do you want out of life? Please comment below.

-Widnie