Eye Opener

This weekend I attended a trip to St. Louis with Student Christian Fellowship. One of our activities for the weekend included serving a church in St. Louis. The church is located in the middle of a neighborhood, and serves the surrounding people. My group helped pull weeds and fix up the church’s garden. At the end of our work time, we took a prayer walk around the block. The owner of the church informed us about particular families in need and the heartbreaking stories of what has been going on in the area. The neighborhood we were in was a lot different than what I am used to. It’s the kind of neighborhood that I would never want to walk through by myself. It’s the kind that you tend to be more aware of what’s going on around you, looking back and forth to make sure no questionable activity is going on.

Throughout the morning, many cars sped by, and we saw some neighbors out and about. Everyone we saw was black. I am not an active racist. However, I am not going to lie and say that I was completely comfortable in that particular neighborhood. Mostly, because of the stories of killings, drug activity, and crime that we heard about during our prayer walk. My point, therefore, is not about how black people are all criminals. In fact, many of the neighbors we saw were friendly and waved to us as we worked. My point is how heartbreaking it is that anyone lives in such dangerous neighborhoods - and that this neighborhood in particular was largely occupied by people of color. I know that this type of activity and living situation is not just an issue for black people. From my experience, however, it does seem more common among blacks. This experience was a reminder of the white privilege that I undeservingly possess.

My experience this weekend opened my eyes to all of the opportunities that I have and take for granted. Growing up I never worried about walking by myself through my neighborhood, or leaving my car unlocked by my house, or having neighbors that dealt drugs. I definitely never heard gunshots or people fighting. My house always had air in the summer and heat in the winter. The refrigerator and kitchen cabinets were stocked with food, and I had clothes that fit me for every season. I had a supportive family who helped me with homework after school and encouraged me to do my best. I often forget that all of those blessings aren’t available for everyone. I would encourage everyone to take an opportunity to serve those in need, not only to help those who desperately need it, but to help oneself realize the importance of not taking anything for granted.