As hard as I try to avoid becoming prey to stereotypes, assumptions, and prejudices…once again, I have come up short.
This morning I attended the kickoff meeting of Chester Exchange – a coalition of agencies, organizations, schools, and advocates working to, collectively, build up and provide hope for children and youth in Chester. The meeting was held in Chester High School.
From my earliest days in Chester I’d heard about the high school. The things that I had heard set me up to arrive with very limited expectations. As I entered the building, the gentleman who had buzzed me in greeted me warmly, and directed me to where the meeting was being held. I offered to him that I’d made a stop at Dunkies for a large cup of my favorite coffee and that I’d love to find a restroom. He, again, fluidly offered concise directions.
When I got to the “Boys’ Room” and opened the door, it was dark, but there was a light switch. I turned it on. Nothing happened. No light. In the absence of windows, complete darkness. I flipped the switch up and down again. And again. And again. No light.
Then the narrative started playing in my head. Just as I was told…the building is broken, obsolete, and even dangerous. It is a place lacking in resources, vitality, and basic safety. It is a place where darkness triumphs over light.
Knowing I needed that room before the meeting started, I returned to the gentleman who had first greeted me. I explained that the lights didn’t seem to be working. Without hesitation he rose up and headed toward the Boys’ Room. He opened the door and walked in…all the way in. As soon as he was two steps into the room, the lights came on. Brilliant, bright light…the result of motion sensors.
Had I walked two steps into that room, I would have been bathed in beautiful, bright light.
I entered that building predisposed to experience darkness. And because that’s what I expected, that’s what I got. Turns out that not only was there light in that room, but the light was more efficient, more economical, and provided even more safety – and beauty.
For so many, Chester is like that bathroom. They have been predisposed to expect darkness, which leads to apprehension and fear, which can result in being critical and judgemental. When we show up expecting darkness, it is so difficult to receive anything more.
I regret – and I repent – for having fallen into the quicksand of assumptions, expectations, and prejudices based upon what I’d heard. And I vow to become even more vigilant in recognizing this trap – before I fall into it.
Most of all, I am grateful for that gentleman who took me by the hand, delivered me from my darkness, and showed me the light.
Peace,
Andy