Lesson #1

"Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction." - 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

Black Father: What does that say, son?

Black Son: They made slavery illegal?

Black Father: No. Not really. 

Black Son: But it says slavery shall not exist in the United States.

Black Father: Is that all it says?

Black Son: No.  

Black Father: They didn't make slavery go away completely. They made it difficult. They have to first make you a criminal. Then they can make you a slave. Do you see that, son?

Black Son: Yes, dad.  

Black Father: So what does that mean to you?

Black Son: .....

Black Father: If you don't let them make you a criminal, then they can't make you a slave. Not physically, anyway.  

Black Son: Physically? Is there another kind of slave?

Black Father: That's enough for one day, son. 

Black Son: I don't understand, dad. 

Black Father: I know, son. I know.

An Open Letter to President Obama

Mr. President, I hope this message finds you well. I would like to take a moment to thank you and Mrs. Obama for the way in which you have lived during your time in office. I thank you, not for what you’ve done as president and first lady, but for who you are as people. In this time of seriously questionable moral character among our would be leaders, I lament the impending loss of such a stellar family in the White House. Politics aside, your family has been a shining example of what America has to offer. You have carried yourselves with class and dignity, even in the face of criticism and hatred the likes of which no president has ever seen. During your presidency, it has always been easy to look up to you as a man. Your family is something that all Americans can aspire to. For that example, I am eternally grateful. These are tough times we face in America. I wish that we could have you to lead us through them. But, your time in office is nearing a close. You have served your country well, sir. Though I have not always agreed with your political decisions, I have never had reason to question your character. You have been a breath of fresh air in an otherwise polluted political climate. Eight years ago, you offered America hope. You delivered on that promise. You give us hope in what we could be. I truly hope that others choose to follow in your footsteps.

Should this message actually reach you, know that it was written with immeasurable love and respect.

Sincerely Yours,

Dr. Rueben Nathaniel Brock