Lost Souls: The Senseless Death of My Godson

Pastor Corey Brooks grieves the senseless murder of his godson, Christion Tucker, questioning his own vigilance and the impact of violence on the South Side of Chicago. Determined to make both lives matter, Brooks vows to carry Christion's voice as he mentors youth towards the American Dream.

My heart breaks as I pen these words, grappling with the senseless and irreplaceable loss of my beloved godson, Christion Tucker. Just a few months ago, we celebrated his 21st birthday, filled with laughter, joy, and the promise of a bright future. Christion stood on the cusp of embarking on his journey at Project H.O.O.D., the non-profit organization I lead, dedicated to reducing violence and empowering our community.

However, fate had a cruel twist in store. A phone call on a fateful Sunday shattered our world. Christion, vibrant and full of life, had been gunned down while sitting in his car. The news sent shockwaves through my being, leaving me numb and questioning the absurdity of it all.

Lost Souls: The Senseless Death of My Godson

Christion was not a statistic, not a product of his South Side neighborhood. He hailed from a loving family, had a kind heart, and possessed an unwavering spirit. He was determined to make his mark on the world, filled with dreams and aspirations. Yet, in an instant, his life was extinguished, leaving an unfillable void.

The pain of losing Christion is beyond words. I find solace in knowing that he lived a meaningful life, albeit cut short. However, the questions haunt me: Was I vigilant enough? Could I have done more to protect him from the dangers that lurked in our neighborhood?

Christion's death has shaken me to my core and challenged my faith. It is a stark reminder of the epidemic of violence that plagues our community, robbing us of our youth and leaving families shattered. I often wonder, why? What purpose does it serve?

Yet, amidst my grief, I am determined to honor Christion's memory and ensure that his life mattered. I will continue to fight against the darkness, working tirelessly through Project H.O.O.D. to provide hope and opportunities for our children.

Christion's legacy will live on through the work we do, inspiring us to strive for a better future. His voice will guide us as we mentor our youth, empowering them to embrace the American Dream he so dearly sought.

I may never know the answers to my questions, but I find comfort in believing that Christion is at peace. He is no longer bound by the limitations of this Earth, free from the pain and suffering that we face. As I navigate the road ahead, I will carry his spirit with me, knowing that he will be forever present in my heart and in the hearts of those who loved him.

Rest in peace, my dear Christion. Your memory will serve as an eternal beacon, guiding us towards a day when senseless violence will no longer claim the lives of our precious youth.