Home Grown Black Males

My journey to training responsible fathers by Halbert Sullivan

 

During my religious upbringing, I was taught, “Train up the child in the way they should go and they will not depart from it.” These words help set the foundation for the work I do. I believe that effective parenting plays a major role in the emotional and psychological development of a child. Children are very moldable; hence, train up the child. In my opinion, the best training for a child comes mostly from two responsible parents.

I was born and grew up until the age of 15 in Memphis, Tennessee. I am the oldest of eight siblings, who were reared by a mother who was mostly a single mom. Eight children are a lot to provide for. I never knew my father prior to turning 55 years old. During my first 12 years of life, I met him briefly (maybe two times). I did, however, have a step-father, Fred Harmon, who was a good man but he was in and out of our lives.

My mother Mennie Wilson was a strong, proud black woman. She taught us morals, values, manners, respect for authority, respect for ourselves and for others. She gave us love, tough love, but we knew we were loved. Education was a must; we went to school every day and did homework every evening. Church was every Sunday and Friday, with Bible study during the week. Read more here.