Protect Inspite of 'those' You Serve

Earlier this week, my wife and I attended the 188th St. Louis County Police Academy's graduation. We were there with family and love ones to support the journey and celebrate the graduation of our grandson, Caleb Howell along with 15 other recruits. It would an understatement to say the ceremony was crisp, classy and well planned.

Two words resonate as I reflect on watching this police officer graduation ceremony:
                                                       'calling & respect.'

I believe only a fool would deny the obvious...those who would train for six months to ultimately place them self in harms way to protect their fellow citizens must be answering a passionate 'calling.' Most professions attract with potential monetary rewards yet those who pursue careers in ministry, teaching and first responders are motivated by a much different inner-voice.

Once upon a time the American public held in highest regards its educators, clergy, law enforcement and government leaders...not so much any longer. Perhaps some of the fault lies at the feet of those professionals as public awareness came to light with reported bad behavior. In my life time a President resigned from office in disgrace. Teachers have conducted inappropriate activities with students. Many clergy were found to be pedophiles. Government officials were caught in scandals. Sports heroes were found to be cheaters using performance enhancing drugs and some law officers demonstrate lack of good judgment.

 Make no mistake, we are experiencing a generation of people who have little respect for authority.  Children DO NOT show respect towards parents and fear no consequences from parents. These same young people go to school where they challenge in disrespectful ways the teachers and administrators. In the streets of America our citizens casually dismiss healthy behavior and flaunt disrespectful attitudes towards property and persons.

As the sixteen graduating cadets sat listening to a United States Congresswoman speak along with several law enforcement hierarchy, they heard a repeated message: "Officers: Thank you for the service and dedication you now begin to offer society. God bless you and return home each day safely." A sobering message.