What We Can Learn from Garrett Reid's Life and Struggle: Ask for Help, Give Help

Damali Binta – Aug 7, 2012

I am saddened to hear of another young person who has lost their fight against their addiction. Garrett Reid's death is another example of a flawed society. In our society, we can ban together to place something on the moon or on Mars, yet we can not hear the cries of our youth, nor do we quickly and effectively minister to their needs.

Often I wonder who introduces the young people to the substances that lead to addictions. Are those who supply the "killing substances" also the killer of those who succumb to overuse and overdoses?

In the Raider Nation, let us hear the cry of our youth. Let us help and direct our young people to help. Since we are a nation, let us have strong connections so that we can respond to the needs of others in the Raider Nation.

Let us show our condolences to the head coach, Andy Reid, and to his family. Let us learn from this experience.

Let us never give up on a brother or sister who is struggling with their addiction. One friend would say to me, about 30 years ago, "each on, teach one."

We all should connect to someone who is struggling and we should learn how to see and hear their inner pain and struggle that often leads to addictions.

On yesterday, I received a Facebook post from a former student. He said he had been somewhere for twelve days. I heard him, with an ear that hears a deeper cry. I am going to respond to him, and use some of the time I nornally use for research and reach out and help or direct the former student to someone. One reason the student has opened up to me is because of my love for the Oakland  Raiders and my cautious and regular counsel to a former Raider who has had a long struggle. The senior Oakland Raider has now set new priorities in his life. It is well with his soul in 2012.

In 2012, we want more victories on the playing field, but we also want more victories of helping those with addictions to recover and to be restored to a healthier lifestyle.

Can we count on you to help someone in the Raider Nation, in the NFL, and in America, in general?

Our condolences are extended to Coach Andy Reid and to others who have had a similar loss.