What's your worldview?

In a place like this you come across many different worldviews, some of which are very different from what society would call normal. With such people it becomes difficult to discuss anything of value - plans for the future, family, friends - without one side becoming completely frustrated by the other. I often am the one to back off as I don't want things to escalate.

Most guys have similar mindsets, that the street life they lived really is a life worth continuing after their release. They see the best approach to any problem is to be aggressive and to stand up for yourself through harsh words and, if necessary, violence. I think a lot of this is just posing to seem appear tougher that they are among their peers.

The guy have been talking with lately has a very different view from my own. Lewis proclaims to be a street punk from Houston, though he is from the suburbs and spent some time going to the University of Houston. He believes there needs to be a violent revolution that reverts civilization to its roots in anarchy. He says he places no value on any human life other than his own, which is obviously just a front because he relates with and eats with others every chance he gets. Again, I think this "out there" philosophy is just a very young guy hoping to get a reaction and some attention.

In all serious conversations I have with guys, I try to give positive options like investing in family relationships or pursuing a job they will enjoy. Many have given up on living a productive life as a member of their community. I do the best I can to reignite plans for a future that builds, not destroys, lives around them. I hope at least a little bit of what I say resonates and sinks in so they don't come back here.