The Human side of our Police robots

We forget that most of these officers are just normal people that answered to a higher calling.

The South African Police Service - Doing us proud!

These days our police officers are featured in the news, more often for bad reasons than good. But not every police official out there is corrupt. We get caught up in the rock throwing so easily, that we forget that most of these officers are just normal people that answered to a higher calling.

They work twelve hour shifts, protecting us, chasing down the criminals that threaten our society. They are not entitled to a lunch hour, but have to grab quick lunches, where no one sees them eating. These people work in all conditions, rain or sunshine, summer or winter, night and day. When most people are warm and comfortable in their beds, our officials in blue leave their families and homes behind to protect ours, not knowing if they would return when the shift is done.

They see and experience things that would shock and scar any normal human being. They mostly experience the worst the human animal has to offer, often witnessing the utter cruelty that humans are capable of.

They belong to a world that only they understand, and not many of their marraiges survive under the strain placed upon them by their work.

Some of these officials have made the ultimate sacrifice, giving their own lives in the line of duty. It has an impact on all of their colleagues, as they are part of a national brotherhood. An injury to one, is an injury to all.

Under the blue bravery, there is just a normal human being, that also feels fear, hunger, anxiety, stress and hurt, like any other person. But they would never show this side to the public.

Our police members perform a thankless task, spending years in one rank, often having to relocate to other places should promotion come their way, leaving behind their lives to start anew in a strange place.

They perform to the best of their abilities with the little resources available to them. Sacrificing their time to help those in need, to protect the weak, to stand up for those who can’t stand up for themselves. Believing above everything in a better tomorrow and a safe South Africa for all.

For every corrupt police member, there is about twenty dedicated members. Members that are judged and hated because of shortsightedness and prejudice. Members that still work very hard despite insults, for they made a pledge to serve and protect.

Before engaging in mud slinging, first try to see the person behind the uniform, and walk a mile in his or her shoes. Maybe then one will find that the mud becomes too heavy to throw.