An Inspirational Lesson from Homeboy Industries

I had the rare opportunity to visit Homeboy Industries—a revolutionary gang intervention program in Los Angeles founded by Father Gregory Boyle, affectionately known by former gang members as “G.” What began in 1988 as a small outreach in the gang capital of the country has grown into a boundless ministry of compassion.

Their fearless philosophy?
“Nothing stops a bullet like a job.”
“Jobs, not jails.”

G started with what he called the “United Nations” of gangs. Today, Homeboy Industries includes Homeboy Bakery, Homegirl Café, Homeboy Silkscreen, and other life-giving ventures. But it didn’t come without pain. G has personally buried 167 young people—and still, he persists. His presence radiates unconditional love, unshakable mission, and the power of relentless compassion.

When I met him, I purchased his book Tattoos on the Heart. He signed it, “Cedric: with a no-matter-what-ness.”

That phrase hit me deep.
Because when God has assigned you something, you need a No-Matter-What-Ness spirit.

People will challenge you.
Life will knock you down.
You’ll get sick. People will die. Some will betray you. Others won’t believe in you.

But you must bounce back.
Again and again. And again.

Resiliency is a spiritual necessity. It’s the ability to get back up—fueled by faith, focused on your calling, and anchored in divine purpose.

So today, plant your feet.
Cling to your calling.
And move forward—with a holy kind of stubbornness—
with No-Matter-What-Ness.

Strong Blessings,
Cedric 
Traditionalwriter@yahoo.com