The Beloved Community reflects the lives of millions of Black men struggling to survive in urban communities. Bishop Dr. Wendell Davis's book caused me to reflect on my own life as a Black man and a father of three sons living in Los Angeles, California. As I read, my eyes began to leak tears of joy and pain, and my spirit was renewed to build the Beloved Community.

I believe most Black men can relate to not having a meaningful relationship with their fathers. Since 1970, seventy percent of Black fathers have not been actively involved in their children's lives. The truth is, it is not only the problem of absentee fathers that creates negative outcomes for Black children, but systemic problems that lead to violence, sexual abuse, inadequate schools, food deserts, and the lack of adequate health care.