And so it goes...

I have a good friend who's son is a student at the University of Chicago. Frank (not his real name) is about to begin his Junior year at this VERY prestigious institution of higher learning. The University of Chicago is rich with diversity amoung it's student body. One of the reasons I think Frank applied and was accepted is due to all that this diversity offers - both socially and educationally. A far cry from the little hamlet of Chippewa Falls!

Aside from this, Frank decided to stay on and work in Chicago this past summer instead of coming home to work and spend time with his family here in Chippewa Falls during the break.

A couple of weeks ago, Frank was walking home to his apartment after spending time with friends. He was alone, and it was during the wee hours of the morning. However, he had traveled this route many times unharmed, on this particular early morning, he was assaulted by four young black men. He was beaten and finally told to run before would kill him.

What to say to Frank? This Frank who yearned to learn about the world in a culturally progressive city, and was raised without racial predjudice. I mentioned the race of the youths that jumped Frank only because I am wondering if Frank's attitude has changed. Should he have carried protection such as a Tazer or some kind of pepper spray? A handgun? Should he have taken a cab? Should he have insisted on going in a group? Why did the group of young men choose to assault their peer? Afterall, they have so much in common...for what reason?

Is this how violence escalates and hatred is borne?

And, so it goes...

Post Script...Frank is physically healed.