Friday, April 13, 2007

On Youth, Hope and the Wonders of Today

WOW! I am bowled over - yet again!

You see, today I attended a meeting of local activists and those that have an impact on the community from a public service perspective. And one thing really stood out in this 90 minute meeting. Actually, I should say one PERSON really stood out.

This young man is some kind of awesome. He's thoughtful, well mannered, articulate, comfortable, pure, innovative, determined, interested, interesting, dedicated, and full of hope. He's also bright, intelligent, savvy, socially acceptable, politically correct. He's a handsome young man, eyes bright with hope, exudes self confidence, holds education near and dear, and is on track to be one of Toledo's 'movers and shakers' in the youth movement.

Ladies and gents - meet Tye Alexander. He's 15 years old and a truly wondrous human being.

Tye is a leader of youth in North Toledo. And he's just what the doctor ordered in order to dissolve the stones of apathy that many of us are plagued with. Tye is the leader of his group and promotes civic involvement, participation in shaping the future, and promotes and perpetuates a peer group that just makes you smile all the way down inside.

Tye's energy is contagious. His smile is what hope is built on. And his sincerity and faith in his own abilities, as well as the impact he has in his community, are traits that I am envious of. I only hope his energy and commitment to improving his future and the future of other youth becomes an epidemic that infects us all.

Tye - you are a shining star. Thank you for being a leader, and for caring enough about your city and your future to step up to the plate.

I applaud you - more than you know!

If you would like to meet Tye then stop by the little park located at Huron and Locust on Sunday, April 22nd, for the Youth Rally. Tye will be there and you really should meet him. He's one incredible human being!