I am not a cop

I am not a cop; though I serve them.

I am not a cop; though I have been known to ride in police cars.

I am not a cop; but I love them.

I don’t think like them, act like them, or talk like them. They’re different. They see and experience things that the human mind can’t even begin to process properly. But they continue on; the good ones anyway! If they ever back up it is because their commanding officer has instructed them to. And usually, they’re not happy about it. Are some of them arrogant? Yep. But so are some preachers, doctors, factory workers, students, retirees, parents and children. Are some of them power hungry? Yep, see previous list! And some of them are good sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, coaches, Sunday school teachers, ministers, care givers, and friends.

They are the most scrutinized group of people in the United States of America. They fight with or without recognition; the good ones anyway. When they make a mistake, it is usually very public because they are public servants. Not like your politicians that make most decisions based on a vote, but true servants. They place their life between yours and evil. Never looking for a hand out but appreciate a hand shake. They work when we sleep, work when we play, work when we have holiday gatherings, work when the world is imploding, and work when they are ask. They fight when they must, love when they can, push till it hurts, and cope when they have time. And all of those actions may be required within one 8-16 hour shift. And then they have to go home and be the good husband or wife, father or mother that their family needs and deserves.

Do not give them sympathy because they don’t want it or need it. Don’t give them a break! I said, “Don’t give them a break!” Hold them to a higher standard because that is who they’re supposed to be. When one goes bad, it’s really bad and everyone finds out about it eventually. When they do well, few rarely get a wink or hand shake. They don’t need sympathy, they need inspiration and courage. Sympathy will cause them to become victims and THEY ARE NOT VICTIMS! They are men and women who have answered a call to serve. Most couldn’t quit if they tried. When they do try; they come back! Don’t give them a break but be fair.

They are special. They are wired differently. They are human! They don’t cower; they stand up and usually lean forward! They don’t give up; they fight on regardless of the noise of unappreciative, spoiled, babied, blind, ignorant human beings that sling crap at them daily. I have never seen one of those that I know, hesitate when called to help, regardless of neighborhood, race, age, sex or religion.

So, to the blue family: Be safe, be brave, go home after work today! You are not alone in spirit even if you’re alone in your car! We will pray, we will serve, we will be grateful.

Have a safe shift,
Pastor Dad