"Peter Clark's ministerial journey provides an in-depth understanding of the sacrifices and hardships faced by black Methodist preachers as they spread the gospel and expanded Methodism in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century. It provides deep insight into the racial attitudes and economic conditions that prevailed in post-Reconstruction Louisiana." - Angella Current-Felder, author, Breaking Barriers: An African American Family & the Methodist Story "I could feel the story better than most because I had been down some of the same roads Peter Clark traveled, although a hundred years later and under more comfortable circumstances.'' - Rev. James L. Killen, Jr., author, Pastoral Care in the Small Membership Church "We sensed Peter Clark's strength and leadership throughout this very turbulent and racially charged time in our history. He would have been honored to have his life written about with such loving care." - Rev. Cindy Foster Serio, spiritual director and retreat leader, Mosaic Spiritual Formation Ministry "The information regarding tuberculosis is insightful. The biography walks the reader through some very important points and offers some food for thought on the thinking at the time and implications for the race, the individual and the family unit." - Dr. Lisa Armitige, medical consultant, Heartland National TB Center

Children are miracles and mysteries. Before they are born, they are often given a first and last name, and relationships between parents and other family members are established. A value system is clearly reflected in the life of the child. The child must remember his/her roots and never turn his/her back on core values and principles affirmed by the teachings of Christ. The child must learn to be multifaceted and a multitasker. The qualifications of an individual are more important than the color of his/her skin. Never overlook giving back to the community; this feat enhances and enriches values in a human being.

It seems like yesterday that things that were happening in my life over seventy years ago, demands that I trust in the loving purpose of a Sovereign God. I have learned to trust that He is in control – especially when life seems out of control. I am prospering and am always hopeful because as a blessed African American woman, I accept my responsibility to give back to the people in this country as much as it has given to me. I will always acknowledge my roots, as they are more important than ever. I am an empty vessel but am versed with a spiritual being to complete a mission for God. And I have an angel or angels who have guided me all my days. They are sent from my Sovereign Creator.

Three persons, Mary Drucilla, Leslie Peter and Eleanor S have shared their life’s stories to edify and help others who are battling serious problems in their own lives. It is amazing how persons can come from tremendous hurts and pain and seek humanitarian solutions for themselves and others. I have chosen to write their stories because many of the mysteries of life can be the most rewarding experiences as they grow and mature. We as individuals, families and friends need each other The unravelling of the drama that effects our complex lives is rendered only through the grace of God. Progress and movement in history occur through the powers of God’s understanding and empathy which can help the unbearable become a bit more bearable.

A bouillabaisse is a mouth-watering stew of seafood, tomatoes, onions, garlic and spices. Elaine Parker Adams creates a bouillabaisse of haiku poetry, contrasting youth and old age, good times and bad, garden and yard, and tackling two American crises-September 11 and Hurricane Katrina. Many of the poems reflect her experiences growing up in New Orleans. Other poems address contemporary issues, such as cultural diversity and social justice. Her poems on nature emphasize birds, from wise owls to human night hawks. There are moments for chuckles, tears, and sighs. Like a good bouillabaisse, each morsel must be savored.

African Americans have played a definitive role in shaping the American traditions, economics, culture and beliefs. It is becoming increasingly clear that thousands of black Americans have added much much to the growth and development of our country. Despite the persecutions and cruelty perpetrated on blacks over the years, records show that they have accomplished much and have overcome incredible hardships with very little to sustain them but their determination , courage and faith. Of those African Americans not mentioned and remain anonymous, we set out to acknowledge and honor them.

African American Women wish to tell their valuable authentic stories even when they are not perfect They leave their legacy of life as they helped to shape the American history, tradition, culture, economics and ideals. They have added much more and played a definitive role in shaping the growth and development of our nation. Their awe- inspiring achievements and accomplishments with intelligence, dignity and love have overcome incredible hardships and have had very little to sustained them but their faith, determination and courage. Many times they have set the standards for outstanding amazing stories of their own lives and enhanced the lives of others.

Our lives will be pulled from the ashes many times, and those times will bring good purposes in our lives. Individualism and independence are at the heart of being American. There will always be many ambition- driven challenges, many events you will not foresee. You will handle some well and some badly. For there is no adequate preparation for all of life’s situations and relationships. There is no such thing as perfection when it comes to relationships that exist between people, especially the relationships between a man and woman. It is possible to have a good relationship with persons in your life, once you first have that relationship with yourself. But with the Creator’s help, you will prevail, you will not fail. We must open doors wide to let others in to learn and to mature. Our Creator will fix our hearts to become involved in reaching and bringing a lost world to Him.