In the 1956 version of The Ten Commandments, Aaron had a fairly small role and he “barely” spoke on behalf of Moses. In reality he played a larger role as both spokesperson and high priest, whose lineage would assume that priestly role.

For about a half year I took a second job as a security guard. During that time I met a young man who had opened up about his past. He was from the bad parts of Chicago and had been in a gang, of which he did something that made him leave Chicago. I never found out what. But what struck me was why he joined a gang. Until then I’m sure my feelings about gangs were similar to most people, they are awful, why would you join one? But he was raised without a father or a big brother or anyone who could help guide him through the difficulties of life. Then, out of the blue, a gang approached him and welcomed him and gave him money. He suddenly had friends watching out for him and some money to buy things he could never afford. He had a leader to look up to, and make him feel good about himself. How could anyone in his situation refuse that?

So I wrote that into my story, and Aaron is that person. Knowing his brother is living in the luxuries of success he will eventually join a gang, much to his grandma’s dismay, and discover the realities of such a course as so many do today in our inner cities.

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