Example

Sadness and shock fill my heart as I sit and write this blog in this quiet spot on Friday morning.  I just received the news that one of my beloved mentors passed away in a tragic car accident in Saudi Arabia.  I met Hesham Hussein about 13 years ago when I was studying to be a teacher at Kent State University.  This man knew that my friends and I needed spiritual guidance, so he did not criticize or make us wrong for being rough around the edges, he immediately started to teach us about spirituality, the ways of brotherhood, and how to really lead a family and community.  He often invited us over to his house to teach us scripture, tell us life lessons and listen to our views of the world.  He never once made us feel wrong, but he always encouraged us to be compassionate and seek the truth in life.  It was about six of us, and like the sun rises in the east, and sets in the west he invited us over to hang out and he ordered lots of pizza.  He spent time away from his wife and kids because he realized the importance of mentoring the youth.  He did not talk excellence, he lived it. I’m committed to spread his message in the work that  I do with young people today.  He provided a safe place for us to learn, study, and have fun. Adults continue to criticize, label, and judge the youth, but how many adults actually spend time with  the youth teaching them critical life lessons in a fun, easy, peaceful way.  Hesham inspired through his actions.  He loved his wife and children, he was very educated, spiritual, athletic, and dedicated to the empowerment of the youth.  Hesham I miss you, I love you, and may your legacy live on and live strong!  Peace and Blessings….