Dignity: The Young will Lead 

First, I want to send my thoughts and prayers to all those affected by Hurricane Fiona, and I also want to keep in my thoughts all those who have family and friends who were affected by the devastating storm which is just five years after Hurricane Maria which many places are still recovering from. Also, to all those who have volunteered to help areas like Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic thank you. 

My son Anthony was recently recognized by his high school for respect. This is not the first time he has been recognized for this and it has been an ongoing theme shared by many of his teachers at Wahconah High School. I am often surprised by this because I have often witnessed his conversations with his mother and sometimes…… Anyone who has teenage boys knows what I am saying LOL. I learn so much from watching him when it comes to treating people with dignity. Anthony stands up for those who have no voice. The younger kids love him. I saw this even when he was in elementary school. He has a gift when it comes to people with intellectual disabilities. They are drawn to him because they can see his heart. I believe he got that gift from his mother.  

Anthony wants to someday play basketball for the Boston Celtics. I will support him in that dream, but I hope he realizes if that does not work out, he has a gift that would make him a great teacher. Whatever he does I know he will change lives because he understands the importance of honoring dignity. If I asked Anthony to name the 10 Elements of Dignity, he may get a couple but if I describe to you the kind of person, he is you will see all 10 elements.  

I am not saying that just because he is my son. I see it in all his friends. As a parent you worry about who your kids hang out with, but I do not worry about that with Anthony. His friends are great, and they all have the qualities to be successful and make great leaders.  

Today I want all of you to know that there is hope. My son and his friends cannot be the only young leaders out there. We as adults can set an example for our children and teach them how to honor dignity. We have a chance to shape the direction of the next generation of leaders and we also have the opportunity to learn from them as well. 

Anthony, thank you for teaching me the value of dignity. I know as your father I should be the teacher, but I have been blessed enough to learn from you as I hope you have from me. Here’s to the next Dignity Freedom Fighter Anthony Craig Redd Point Guard for the Celtics or History Teacher at Wahconah High School. 

“Our children are the rock on which our future will be built, our greatest asset as a nation. They will be the leaders of our country, the creators of our national wealth, those who care for and protect our people.” Nelson Mandela 

Charles Redd RN 

Dignity Freedom Fighter