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I am super excited to receive an autographed copy of the latest book by Dr. MyRon Edmonds, a powerful speaker, mentor, and leader. In Men’s Breakthrough Devotional, Edmonds guides readers through a journey of personal transformation, emphasizing the power of breakthrough. With heartfelt vulnerability, he shares his own story, demonstrating that breakthroughs often emerge from deep struggles.

At a low point in his life, despite his public successes, Edmonds was caught in addiction and despair. His private battles overshadowed his achievements, and his inner turmoil went unaddressed. A poignant question from his daughter jolted him to confront his hidden demons and seek healing. Driven by a mission to help men and anyone in need of community, Edmonds’ book is a beacon of hope and transformation. Available now on Amazon.

In addition to these factors, the COVID-19 pandemic, with its isolation and because of these inequities, made black communities even more vulnerable to mental health problems, particularly among young people. In 2020, suicide was the third leading cause of death for blacks ages 15 to 24. Post-COVID-19 we continue to see a rise in mental health issues among young blacks.

While there are many factors contributing to the development of poor mental health, and much work to do to address these factors, there is hope. You can promote good mental health by eating a whole-food, plant-based diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. It is important to note that while these factors help improve mood, mental health issues that are persistent and interfere with performance of everyday activities, and thoughts of harming oneself, should always be evaluated by a health professional.

By Delbert Baker

By the time he got back to the river, Woodrow’s lifeless body was floating face down in the river. As a result of his untimely death, my great-grandmother Adaline forbade her children from going swimming and none of them ever learned how to swim. In truth, this decision was rooted in fear. What would happen if her children were in a situation that required them to swim to live? However, in Adaline’s grief-stricken mind this was the best pathway forward.

At the time of this writing, America is battling the undercurrent of inflation, affordable housing shortages, and even the looming political threat of Project 2025. Black families struggle against these contemporary realities. Being black in America already implies a tough swim against constant microaggressions, the threat of, and broadcasting of blacks dying, and the apprehension that we cannot sufficiently buoy our children in a system that attempts to drag them under.

I tried to end our brief exchange on another topic, and a good note. Months later, though he did the best job that he could, that job didn’t work out. When I rejoiced and thanked God for hearing my prayers, my son failed to appreciate my effervescence, and excused himself from the conversation. I text him the next day:

Some believe that if their parents or grandparents made terrible decisions in the past, they will make the same mistakes. Whether they use the word or not, many believe that failure is in their destiny, no matter what they do or how hard they try. However, others believe they don’t have to regard their choices or actions because they come from a long line of successful people and environments.

And, I have to be honest; it would be nice to think that no matter what I do, or whatever choices I make, I’m going to succeed because I’m supposed to. So, if my father is a successful businessman, I will be too. If my mother marries well, I will automatically make excellent decisions regarding romantic relationships. If my family is known for being great scholars, I should get through school without even trying.

That simply isn’t the case.

“Woman, behold thy son!” then to John, “Behold thy mother!” John understood Christ’s words, and accepted the trust. He at once took Mary to his home, and from that hour cared for her tenderly.