DENIAL IS THE ENEMY ...... OR ......... THE INNER SHEEPDOG

Been in a training class for the last two days. Initially I was kind of bummed about the topic, Homicide in America - The Teen Killer.

I know that seminar may sound exciting but, after having been in police work for a while I usually don't get very excited about crime scene photos and all of the stuff that I know will continue to poison my mind in these type of conferences. The speaker for day one was good and I enjoyed his presentation. I had the opportunity to learn about the inner working of people that will murder. I won a book in a drawing and got to spend time with friends. After day one I was feeling better about the conference. The day one instructor gave us the name of the second day instructor. I had heard the name Lt. Col. Dave Grossman before, but had not spent any time reading or studying his information.

Day two rolled around today and back to Midlothian, Texas for the conference. Lt. Col. Dave Grossman introduced himself and immediately my spirits were lifted. Col. Grossman is a fine speaker and very inspirational. Col. Grossman made sure and take time to connect with everyone in the room by validating our very existence and linking that validation to our jobs.

What a blessing to hear a service man thanking cops and educators in the class for doing what we do. I found myself drawn in to his speaking and he utilized his knowledge to present to us many important facts. 

What does this have to do with youth? I have explained over the last few blogs that you need to "Do Hard Things." You need to step out and be bold. You need to be prepared to fight an enemy. Col. Grossman prepared us for the same things in relation to being a police officer.

His instruction was sometimes hard and violent. He encouraged boldness in all of us. He told us about the enemy. He prepared us to fight. 

One of his last points, I believe is particularly relevant to all of you teens, and so that is why I show you his photo with me and my friend Venessa today.

My calling is not necessarily to sacrifice my life but it is to live a life of sacrifice. Col. Grossman made it very clear that everything we do in service to others is because of love.

Teens, I pray that you are never called to sacrifice your life. Our perfect sacrifice in Christ has already happened. But I do pray that you determine now to live a life of sacrifice.

Have a great Friday,

Love,

Bro. Allen