Race relations in America continue to trend in a downward trajectory, sometimes spiraling out of control as if in free fall. That is a concern for me, as it should be for all men of goodwill. Attempts to mediate differences between warring factions appear futile and, in some cases, have exacerbated tensions.

Weeds in the Garden of the Soul addresses the disconnect that occurs when man removes himself from God and charts his own course. The Bible tells us that Satan is the prince of this world. It also warns that the battle we wage to maintain our relationship with God is a battle between principalities, not flesh and blood. In our human condition, we are no match for the powers of evil. Salvation can only be gained through Jesus Christ. Man's exploitation of his fellow man has caused his heart to become hardened against the Creator. He is moving headstrong into uncharted waters with no thought for the disastrous consequences of his actions.

As a Black man born in Texas in the 1930s, my roots run deep into my community and my culture. My life experiences have thoroughly indoctrinated me in the ways Black people were required to interact with White people during pre-and post slavery periods. Slavery dismantled the heart of Black families, resulting in communities of suffering and long-term trauma. The experiences of my youth, shared with my elders, helped me paint word pictures in this book of a time in America that many choose to deny or just ignore.

Black people hold on tenaciously to their faith in God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. We refuse to allow bitterness, hatred, and revenge to occupy space in our hearts against our oppressors and create a separation from God. Instead, we pray for their forgiveness. We harbor no malice or ill will, nor shall we ever forget.