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Gregory Cross Jr. considered his life to be pretty decent, but rough
around the edges.
His father was popular in town, which left a name for Cross. He realized
he had to be careful about how he moved.
Despite his father’s obstacles and time in prison, he believes he had a
great father figure growing up. Gregory’s father taught him
that he didn’t have to smoke and drink or be in gangs in
order to make something of himself.
“He basically
taught me the ropes on how to be a man, taught me that I
didn't have to go to jail or get caught up in the system. He
taught me focus and most kids don't get that. I had a decent
man that raised me, but there was just a me that I had to
become.”
Gregory had his first son when he was 28.
“Having a child
taught me that I got to really look out for myself because I
have a seed now. Anything I do is not just for me anymore,
it’s for my child and his well being.
Anything you do
falls back on your child. If you’re not careful, you can
mess up your child’s life based off your actions. Any little
moves that I may make or any little selfish actions that I
take out of pride or ignorance, I leave my son out here to
fail. Anything I do now has to be for the sake of my child.
It's not about me anymore. It's about him.”
Cross first heard about Brothers United while he was in CTF Work
Release. He asked people he knew about the program and they
convinced him to join. Having known of many fatherhood
programs that failed to serve him, Cross was hesitant to
believe BU could benefit him in any way. Once he got into
the program, he grew to liking it.
Brothers United helped Mr. Cross grow wise in his decision making. He
learned how to control his anger and communicate, which he
expressed he was very poor at beforehand.
“I appreciate all
the things you guys taught me. You showed me to pay
attention. I still have my issues here and there, but I’m
applying what I’m learning and trying to make it count.
Cross realized that after the program, he was able to look at the things
he was doing wrong. He became more cautious of his behavior
and continues to do what he can to stay out of trouble.
“I had my problems
here and there, but I made it to 29. I’ll be 30 this year.
I'm thankful this program helped me to really evaluate all I
do.”
If you are interested in joining The Brothers United Program or have
someone you want to refer : Call us at (419) 279-6297 or
www.pathwaytoledo.org
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