Raising African American Boys to be Men in This Age of Insanity

One of the most difficult task many black families face is raising children.  There are so many decisions to make with the hope we get it right. There are so many twists and turns that often our actions are paralyzed by fear. However, no matter how trying this task is, it is imperative that we complete it. 

The bigger issue though has been trying to raise young African American boys to be men.

If the stats are to be believed black females are more likely to attend an institution of higher learning than their black male counterparts.   This means that the available pool of black men will continue to shrink for them if we aren’t replinishing the pool with eligible, educated, family oriented men.

We must all seek to guide these young boys away from the everyday status symbols.  Parents are as guilty as the actors, rappers and sports figures in guiding them down the wrong path.  We must continue to watch what we do and say in their presence.  It is not in our children’s best interest to discuss monetary needs in front of them.  For the young black male who can see his parents struggle to pay rent or mortgage, the battle cry becomes “I want to buy my parents a house.” While that is commendable, it is not ideal.  We need to seek to make these young men appreciative of what they do have so that they can seek their true dreams within the Law and at the right pace. 

Fame and fortune may come, but internal happiness and a healthy sense of self must come first.  If there is no guidance, then cash flow becomes their guide.  Many a weak minded man has been derailed by the ever ending search for cash.

Parents, seek to instill morals, sense of social obligation and love for education in your young black children.  Lets teach them how to love themselves first.  And we will have taken the first step to raising African American boys to men.