When I began blogging a couple of years ago, I made a decision not to discuss politics and current events. Writing from a perspective of faith, I wanted to focus on the things we shared rather than the divisions between us. However, I believe there is shared outrage and grief at the tragedy unfolding at Penn State. How ironic that the very week we celebrate the honor and courage of the men and women in our armed forces, we were made aware of a conspiracy of silence and inaction, men who chose to protect positions, appearances and friendships rather than protect innocent boys.

 

I am losing the struggle not to judge the actions of a 28 year old man who witnessed a boy's rape, and walked away, then called his father because he didn't know what to do. If it were a grandmother being mugged, or hoodlums vandalizing a car, would he have known what to do? If it were his son, would he agree the bystander had done enough?

 

I understand the difficulty that exists when the mind is forced to wrangle with the reality that a colleague, mentor or trusted friend carries such blackness in his soul. However, what is right must prevail over what is easy. I've read statistics that say 1 in 3 girls and perhaps as many as 1 in 5 boys are abused in our society. As long as institutions and individuals protect the predators over the innocents, those trends will continue.

 

Two other facts also bear heavy on my heart and mind. I have an eleven year old son. He played his first season of football this year. How do I make him wise without making him fearful, suspicious and paranoid? How do I find that balance for myself?

 

I will continue to pray for the young men who have been violated. The damage is irreparable, healing is a long and slow process, but their courage is tremendous.

I will continue to pray for the families impacted, and they are numerous, both directly and indirectly affected.

I will continue to pray for the long line of young men who wore the Penn State jersey, who through no fault of their own, are associated with scandal, whose accomplishments and achievements are forever clouded.

I will continue to pray for the men who failed, including the perpetrator.

And I will continue to pray for the coming day when all things are made right. Even so come Lord Jesus.