My reflections on Bon Air experiences, Week 2

A couple of things stand out to me from our visits this week.  One I mentioned in class: the prevalence of violence in their lives, and their mostly positive attitude towards it.  Some guys didn’t want to tell a “helping” story at all.  One guy’s story was jumping into a fight to help his brothers, but he sort of said he always jumps into fights anyway (I wasn’t quite clear on what he was trying to say, but that is my interpretation.) They seemingly like to present as strong, independent and dangerous.  On the other hand, they are not trying to threaten US in any way.  I don’t get to hear the personal stories they tell one on one.  I wonder if they have more bravado in the big group, performing for each other?

I did take the journals to Bon Air yesterday to give to the guys on 62.  I was touched that a few of them seemed to really want that.  I also talked to Ashley about some of your questions from yesterday.  She had specifically talked to Galvino, to make sure he was interested in attending our class.  His reply was “Yes. Absolutely.”  She said that he is normally a real clown, and that he may just be trying to keep it under control.  He is enjoying the class.  I also asked about the conversations about drugs and illegal activities.  She advised that we should remember that they are working through stuff, and the way we can be helpful is to listen without judgement and ask questions like “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” “What do you think could happen?” “How do you feel about that?”  etc.  That is a good suggestion anyway–listening and asking questions is almost always a good way to go!

I’m really pleased with how open you all are, and how hard you are trying to make good conversation happen.  Thanks for that!