What Price Hope?

I am really saddened by the news that Homeboy Industries, a very successful gang intervention program in Los Angeles, has had to lay off the majority of its workers and is facing financial ruin. I have experienced the rewards first hand, as my daughter works for the organization, run by Father Greg Boyle, and has dedicated the last ten years helping support his vision.

In a society where most people work hard so that they can acquire things, from the largest flat screen televisions to the biggest gas guzzling SUV, it is encouraging to see someone who sees the good in everyone, and dedicates his life to giving them strength and to the ability to make a U-turn in their life's path. For zero monetary rewards.

 
Father Greg has recently written a book, Tattoos on the Heart, which details his remarkable journey assisting Los Angeles gang members to become positive and contributing members of society. Told through personal stories arranged by themes, he inspires and humanizes those who have fallen through the cracks.

Even though the profitable Homegirl Cafe, Homeboy Bakery and the silkscreening business will remain open, all of the other services, such as tattoo removal, counseling, job training, educational programs and legal assistance, will cease to operate.

In a city that is so impacted by gang violence, you would think that they would come up with the money to help such a compassionate, effective program. 

I just read somewhere that Meg Whitman has spent $68 million of her own money to run for governor of California and I can vouch for it by the number of commercials that have been bombarding the airwaves.  To top it off, she is sliding in the polls, probably because of all the commercials. I guess this just proves the theory that LIFE IS NOT FAIR.