How do we deal with periods of transition?

BillRoddy_ManhoodFTHood_FBArt_61913_39Observing human behavior over the last few days in regards to current government situation I couldn’t help but reflect on the difficulties that accompany periods of transition, for  community,  for society and for business.

Our organization, Osiris Organization, is going through a transitional period.  We love the growth that its producing.

During periods of transition does it fill us with laughter, excitement and pure enjoyment? Absolutely not!  Our goals are to grow as individuals and as an organization is paramount. Sometimes that’s painful!

 

Why does change invoke fear within us as individuals, a community and as a society?

Do we want things to remain the same so that we can ‘feel’ secure?

 

The beauty of working with youth, being an animal lover and loving nature is this: They teach humans how to embarrass change, grow, love unconditionally  and move on and accept the cycles of life!

 

 

Isn’t it exciting when the mentee becomes the mentor?

Cortez, Bill & Steve

Cortez, Bill & Steve

 

This afternoon I had lunch with Cortez Wilson and Steve Mincey. Both of whom I have the utmost respect because of the men, fathers and husbands they have become.

In 1998, Osiris Organization formed its collaboration with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation public parks.  A teenager at the time, Cortez brought the idea me to build computer labs in the parks.

It started in 1998 at Powderhorn Park. In 2013 there are 27 Osiris constructed computer labs open to the public in the City of Minneapolis!

Our lunch meeting was not about the computer labs. It’s about life we live as men, helping our community and the continual mentoring to other young men like Cortez. Corky Wiseman, Steve and I made sure that Cortez was supported.  We committed to a life-long relationship with him. We see the impact Cortez is having with his peers, as a young business owner and father.

“Mr. Roddy, you have taught me a lot about computers.  I live in south Minneapolis near Powderhorn Park and I don’t have anywhere to go to continue working on my skills.  Why don’t you construct a computer lab in Powderhorn Park?”

I remember Cortez’s request.  It seems like only a few months ago.  I can still see the earnest honesty in his eyes.  We eventually constructed our first computer lab at Powderhorn Park in 1998 under the direction of the Director, Corky Wiseman.  Cortez was employed in the computer lab.  Youth Director Steve Mincey mentored Cortez, Corkey Wiseman mentored Steve.

 

What was so special about our meeting this afternoon?

The mentee, Cortez, now is asked to be a mentor!

 

In 1998 we created a ‘village’ like the one I had growing up in inner city Chicago on the 60s.  Men would take part in raising, mentoring and disciplining the young boys in our community.

I am deeply honored to have men like Corky Wiseman, Steve Mincey and Cortez Wilson in my life.  We three are dedicated to making a difference.

 

Doesn’t it inspiring you to know that it only takes a few caring men to create a ‘village’?

 

Please keep mentoring young males. They need that support to help them transition into manhood!

 

Mentoring Awareness


BillRoddy_ManhoodFTHood_FBArt_61913_36

Family and close friends are a part of our inner and most trusted circle of contacts.

We never know who we are influencing as we live our lives.  But you can be sure there is always someone observing our behavior!

 

How do think people feel when they are in your presence?

 

As an eighteen year old man leaving home for the first time I didn’t quite fully understand the influence I had over those younger than I until later in life.

Being an adult man I am conscience of those I mentor and those who are observing at a distance.

 

Have you ever wondered what we are inspiring those we mentor to become?

 

 

 

Tough Love! Isn’t it needed for those we help transition into manhood?

BillRoddy_ManhoodFTHood_FBArt_61913_49I had to discipline a young man I’ve been mentoring for several years.  He worked for our organization and successfully transitioned into a full time position with benefits.

He is still struggling to transition into manhood!

“Mr. Roddy, I’ve been working for this company for several years.  I think I should be getting a raise in pay and promoted.”

“Carl, what do you think you have done to merit an increase in pay and a promotion.”

“Mr. Roddy, I’ve always been on time, a team player and I think I am entitled to a raise and a promotion.”

Many of my conversations with youth and young adults inspire me to reflect on my childhood. I was raised in the 60s and the 70s. I had to share my thoughts.

“Carl, just because you’ve been in a position for a certain length of time doesn’t entitle you to anything.”

Our conversation was a challenge from there!

 

When did we as individuals and as a nation start thinking we are entitled to something that we don’t earn?

Is it a fear based mechanism we develop with the hope that someone else will take care of us?

 

Our conversation reminded me of my young life in Chicago.  My grandparents never let me off the hook.  I had to earn everything and there were no excuses.  I was irritated at them on many occasions. They often put my transitioning into manhood on hold.  As I matured, I admired their values and how they raised me.

“You are only entitled to what you have earned in our home.  After you leave our home it will be a rude awakening for you if do not understand what we are trying to teach you. We know you are upset with us. Perhaps years in the future you will grow to appreciate what we are sharing with you.

“Becoming a man entails understanding  many facets of life, son.” ~ My Grandfather, William Henry Roddy

 

How do we discipline those we mentor?

Are we so focused on “just being their friend” that we forget our roles as mentors, parents, uncles, aunts, cousins and coaches?

And perhaps true manhood is a lifelong challenge!