Jesse Sharpe

Transformations: from Males to men Jesse Sharpe

Transformations: from Males to Men is a collection of haiku and short essays that focus on personal development. Each chapter's introduction is a brief essay followed by original and relevant haiku focuses on the development of the Black males into Black men. The transformational keys are not limited to any one ethnic or cultural groups. As Shakespeare points out, all men start out as the whining school boy who at some points ages into the old man if he does die a solder with "the bubble reputation." only in our space are we allowed to be men in the midst of men Transformation centers on the need for each man to unapologetically be himself. It is a man or male defined space that it is important that women acknowledge even when they do not understand. It is important for men to carve out that space, but also to insure it at all times respectful of others. However, as men should have no reason to apologize for being men, neither should Black men apologize for affirming and celebrating our African heritage. Transformation in fact, demands it, for it is through looking back into history and understanding how we were at one time great kings, educators, inventors, etc., we get an idea of who we truly are and can become: embracing who I AM an African descendant american born Transformations is also poignant. It is not a mere feel good book. It requires the reader to slow down and meditate on where he wants to go. It demands that we men become responsible and respectable. character, coupled with respect is the makings of the mature man Though faith is key to the transformation of boys to men, Transformations acknowledges that men, perhaps more so than women, find it difficult to stand on this faith. it is not guesswork but sometimes it is hard work to keep up the faith Just as acknowledging who we are as men is key to transformation, as well as confessing to and atoning for our wrongs, so the same with faith. Though God is that supernatural being that lives everywhere, Transformations suggest that at the very least? the truth is faith faith in your abilities to do the right thing Transformations is definitely a spiritual book, though it is far from preachy or judgmental. A pleasant read, it is as enjoyable as it is informative and educational. At the index, there is list of other books worth reading, a table explaining the Adinkra symbols found in each chapter.