"Once you begin thinking about it, there are numerous opportunities to make Personal Safety Nets work within your own life and the lives of the people you love." James J. Marshall-Ward, Executive Director, Rosehedge/Multifaith Works.
Good Works: Tony Gin Inspires Youth
Mon, 06/28/2010 - 12:36pm
Tony Gin got out of prison in May 2008, without a home or a job. Living on the streets of Los Angeles, he reached out to everyone he met, sharing his gratitiude for being alive and his interest in helping others. He is now speaking to groups of young people in schools, colleges, and conferences. Here's what one professor said about Tony: "He has saved thousands and has become an icon to Venice Beach business people and tourists alike. But it is the educational environment which can benefit most from his story - one your students will never forget."
Below is a message recently received from Tony:
I was born to a beautiful 14 year-old mother who was being abused by the men she met. With no father I believed I was the luckiest kid I knew running free in the streets of Los Angeles. Howerver, I never seemed to find a place that I could call home. My selfish street survivial skills kept me separated and after 6 prison terms and 35 years of addictions I finally believed that nothing out there worked for me and I just wanted to die. I found a book in the trash called We're All Doing Time. It didn't judge, criticize or even lecture me . . . it reminded me that I have within me a home. That the only thing I have to be better than, is better than I used to be. For the first time I was able to find the strength to face my hard thoughts. No matter what, now I kow that there is noting this day can bring that I cannot handle. Today I live free from my past and future and remind everyone I meet of their good qualities. I've been invited to drive a limousine for a living, to live with good friends on the beach, and to speak to the students about it all. THIS LIFE HAS NEVER BEEN ABOUT ME...AND IT'S NOT ABOUT YOU...IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT US.
Thank you for being a part of it . . . Tony Gin
Reprinted with kind permission: humankindness.org
To read more: TonyGin.net
The Human Kindness Foundation, founded by Bo and Sita Lozoff, is a non-profit organization which stresses a way of life based upon three common principles taught by the great sages of all religions: Simple living, a dedication to service, and a commitment to personal spiritual practice.
Tony Gin
Tony Gin is a wealth of education, one which American Culture MUST not ignore. It is through his eyes that the world brings about a better understanding of a man who has been to hell and back. We all have our problems, but when the problem is thrust upon one's human existence from birth, it would be ethically wrong to ignore his message. And, when people like Tony tear down the walls of oppression, the world becomes a better place through his love for mankind.