Walk To Jackie Robinson's House: Better To Be Loved Than Feared

I’ve imagined an ideal world, where everyone carries a part of society on his/her shoulders; no one is relieved of his share of responsibility by others. And no one can find a safe way out for him/herself if society is sweeping toward destruction. Therefore, everyone, in his/her own interests, must thrust him/herself vigorously into the intellectual battle. None can stand aside with unconcern; the interest of everyone hangs on the result. Whether he/she chooses or not, every man/woman is drawn into this great and continuous historical struggle.

I regularly go on mindful walks to Jackie Robinson's Brooklyn House on 5224 Tilden Ave. Lately, I've been meditating on what should my approach be to reach latinos and people of color who are upset with what’s happening in America. I think about what will happen after Black Lives Matter stops trending in the media. I like to think my style of leadership empathizes with people of color, always accepts the person, encourages all peaceful protest and self reflection, but sometimes refuses some people of color efforts (all races) as good enough. Since I’m also flawed, I always try to listen intently. Yet, my most common defense mechanism is to project my personal mission statement.

"Place no expectations on others when sharing love, kindness and good vibes. Since at times you'll go unnoticed, unheard, ignored and unvalidated. Despite this, strive to be conscious, grateful, forgiving, envisioning a perfect future, in the moment and blessed”.

At best, I see myself as an absurd hero who’s trying to live life to the fullest, hates death, while being condemned to life’s meaningless tasks. I choose to stay positive despite knowing modern life is spent working at futile jobs in retail, factories and offices with other flawed people.

The most unfortunate thing regarding nihilism is not the loss of the ability to believe, but the inability to see the beauty, opportunities and possibilities of things and events occurring around us daily. Our success starts with the stories we tell ourselves since time heals griefs and quarrels, for we change and are no longer the same persons. Neither the offender nor the offended are any more themselves.

Jose Franco is a self anointed "Brooklyn Public Intellectual"