In recent days I have been overwhelmed by people’s desire to help the city of Baltimore. I have been equally overwhelmed by my inability to answer this simple question: “How can I help?”

Here is my public confession: I really don’t know.

It took me a while to understand why I couldn’t answer this question. After much thought I finally realized that I have a fear of our city receiving help without healing. Our greatest need is healing. Our systems, relationships, education, families, and communities need healing. The relational healing includes those between the cultures, races, and classes in our city. Our hurt has been evident through recent deaths, riots, and the destructive responses to these events.

So, here is my answer to the million dollar question: You can help by participating in the healing. Our healing has at least three components: time, bridges, and consistency. I will elaborate on each component in upcoming blogs.