A Good Man

I am writing this in support of my father who has been everything to me and my three siblings. I am 30 years old and to this day when I need advice I call my father. He is the lone supporter of my family which counts for my friends, relatives, and work employees.

I was born in New York in 1970 to my parents Mr. Sylvester Brooks and the deceased Mrs. Angela Brooks. I have much respect for both of these extraordinary adults. We grew up in the projects of New York we then moved to St. Louis but never once have we went unfed.

My father just recently completed 27 years of service to our Country. With all the distractions that face black men today never (ONCE) have I seen my father cow down to anyone. He had the type of belief in himself that is missing in today's man. I am not saying that there are not any men left, I am only speaking about the man.

During my early years I began boxing and because of my strong belief in African people I was recently harassed by the European populace who didn't share my view. (I learned later in life that black peoples **** does stink). Even with the many absurd things that me and my brother did he never once lost faith in us or abandoned us. Since I am now in the service and living in California my father takes the responsibility of rearing my

Just recently he joined a church in St. Louis this was a big step and I think finally he has realized that he cannot carry the weight of the world on his shoulder. His name in St. Louis alone brings reverence to anyone who knows him. I would like to nominate Mr. Sylvester Brooks as the candidate for the Father of a lifetime. He has touched my life and many others and I pray that I keep the torch lit for the family. Peace.

[back to top]

My Father's Spirit

All my life I've seen him strive
And helped his family to survive
He constantly struggled from day to day
And helped his family to find the way

Food was scarce, and money was tight
Sometimes his stomach growled at night
Then again the next morning had come
It is time to go and work the ground

Rain-fall or sun-shine, he worked very hard
To plant fruits and vegetables in the back yard
From the sweat of his brow, we did eat
Despite the tiredness from his feet

He taught us respect and dedication
Team work and collaboration
Despite the rugged situation
To reap rewards, and deal with transition

I'm very proud of you father of mine
I know we went through some hard times
Knowing Jesus is Lord, and Faith is might
My father never lost interest in God's sight.

[back to top]

To Our Black Men

This little note is to you. Because I do feel as though there are some good Black men out there, I felt compelled to write this.

I know some of you get discouraged with us, and feel as though we do you wrong. I am speaking of us now, Black women. But I am asking you to get discouraged, but don't turn your back on us.

We are still learning and have a long way to go. But let's learn and go through this thing called Black unity togetther. I myself have made mistakes in relationships, and have had mistakes made upon, but I have never given up on trying to keep the communication lines open bewtween myself and my Black brothers.

Society has already taken a great number of Black men from us through war, drugs and the prisons. And some goodBlackmen have taken themselves out of the game by homosexuality. So there is a shortage of good Black men. So brothers, the good ones that are left, don't sell the good sisters short who are willing to listen and to be there for you.

Give the Black family a chance, for without you the Black family will become extinct. Without you, the young Black men comming up, like the ones I am presently raising alone, will not have guidance and understanding only you can give them. If not for us, think about your sons, nephews or maybe little brothers, that are growing up without any role modles or guidance from someone with a face like yours. Or a heart like yours....

A concerned single Black mother of three boys,
Regina G. Jones

[back to top]