“I’m so thankful I never let the police badge be my sole identifier. I’m also thankful I’ve followed the steps ordered by God. There have been many images throughout the years of police officers interacting with the community. That’s all well and good but what happens when that uniform comes off? Can your impact be the same?
I can remember early in my career when I was invited to a child’s birthday party. It was my day off. I got dressed in my uniform then I told myself no. I changed and put on a pair of jeans and a button down. I decided then I didn’t want every interaction to be with me in a uniform. If you really want to talk about breaking barriers, then prove yourself as someone who is a humanitarian not JUST a police officer.
I’m honored to say I can sit on a curb eating popcorn with kids in the same neighborhoods I patrol in. And I’m wiling to bet these kids feel safer with me wearing civilian clothes compared to the uniform. This will go over some people’s heads but the point is this: compare yourself to an eagle. Let’s say as a police officer your wingspan reaches most if not all of your community. Will it do the same when that uniform goes away? Food for thought.”
