A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

If a picture can express more than words, than the site of an empty drug peddlers’ corner at the Hollywood Courts Apartments in Atlanta says it all.

This spot near a recent Section 3 work site is unusually clear of its usual occupants, a group known as the “Drug Boys”. Normally this spot by unit number 68 is a 24-hour hot bed of illegal activities such as the sell of drugs and prostitution. One Monday morning in the middle of August, I answered the phone and heard a frantic voice saying “bring your camera”. I didn’t understand the message or recognize the caller so it meant nothing to me until later that morning when I met with Ms. Wright for our appointment. When she immediately asked if I brought my camera, it all made sense to me. Ms. Wright was so excited about the obviously missing drug boys (absent since the last job readiness/motivational session) that she wanted the moment documented for all to see.

One of the young men said stated that, once he gets a job he plans to take care of his children and mother. Clearly, this man understands the value of a paycheck over fast and deadly money. We all know that there will soon be new drug boys to assume the position at this spot. However, we selfishly celebrate the fact that a life may have been saved, children may have a father and a mother may have her son a little longer thanks to a Section 3 business.

Article contributed by Motivation, Inc. staff © 2003