There is a beautiful and compelling scene in the movie “Letters from Iwo Jima” directed by Clint Eastwood. A young U.S. soldier’s letter from home, written by his mother, is read in front of some Japanese soldiers. The simple truth included is something that has stuck with me through the years:
“…always do what is right…because it is right.”
Eastwood didn’t hold any punches in offering a mother’s advice… “always” combined with “do” is a tough call to action when being held accountable for what is “right”. But if you’re like me…you appreciate simplicity.
I’m human…so I fail at always doing what is right…just ask my wife.
But I’ve found successes too. One of those has been becoming a mentor in the Big Brother Big Sisters program. Almost like clockwork…every two weeks…I get a text reading something like “Hey Scott…wanna hang out?” This is from a 15-year-old young man who has grown up lacking a father in the home…and clearly appreciates the opportunity to be seen and heard…if only for a couple of hours every other week. Frankly, me being the father of three girls, I relish the excuse to go to monster truck rallies, play some Mortal Kombat, and watch the entire Indiana Jones series with a willing party. It’s a win-win.
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. My role as a father of 3 teenage daughters and as a mentor to a young man offers me the opportunity to bring attention to both sides of this pressing issue. In fact…the Men IN Action group was created with the same duality in mind.
With this in mind, I encourage you to consider what you can ‘do’ this month to create a positive outcome for our community. I’m reminded of some good advice my high school football line coach used to offer…if you find yourself just looking around…hit somebody. Replace that with ‘help somebody’ and just do it.
… because it is right.
Scott Singleton
St. Susanna Parish, Plainfield
A Man IN Action
Register for 2023 Men IN Action READ!
Join us for our 2023 Men IN Action READ! We are asking YOU to read a book to students at a local school on Thursday, March 16, 2023.
At the 2023 Men IN Action READ, we will send 450 men into schools throughout the county to read a book to students that focuses on positive family communication, school engagement, cultural competence and self-esteem.
You can have an impact by signing up to read and/or gifting this year’s book to the school corporation of your choice!
2023 Premier Event – Tomorrow’s Hope Begins Today
Join us for one of Central Indiana’s most anticipated events, featuring former head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, Tony Dungy!
The 2023 Premier Event will be on Friday, May 5, 2023, at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown!
