On the back cover of the 1st Edition of The Healing Power of the Circle, my friends and colleagues, Dr. Tricia Bent-Goodley and Dr. Jerome Schiele, applauded this collection of spiritual awakenings. Schiele suggested, "This book represents the creative ways African Americans have used spirituality to resist and transcend the unnatural grip of Eurocentric domination. This book is a must-read for those who seek spiritual healing in a spiritually alienated and racially oppressive society." Bent-Goodley hailed this book as "a refreshing collection of spiritual awakenings that touch your heart and kindle the soul. Be prepared to sit and contemplate the words of giants such as Dr. Morris F.X. Jeff, Jr., and hear the words of those coming behind him, knowing for certain that the circle is not broken."

Now-15 years later-WOW! We've come over some hills and mountains and such a long way! We've gained many new ancestors and celebrated some victories, but the battle is not over. The attacks against our humanity persist. My love for the ancestors and elders who loved and love NABSW is the reason I return when asked to do things I know are important. Mama Marimba Ani teaches us, "We have to be patient with each other." This is no easy task when we are faced with so many challenges both inside and outside the circle. But, if our ancestors-who survived the Middle Passage, enslavement, Jim Crow, and a host of insults and indignities for hundreds of years so that we might know what it is for the circle to be forever-who am I to not...who are we to not lean into our faith, trust in the power of God Almighty, and continue the assignment of shining a light on "The Healing Power of the Circle"?

Dr. Rhonda Wells-Wilbon
Professor, Morgan State University
Co-Editor, Social Work Practice with African Americans in Urban Environments and Trauma and Mental Health Social Work with Urban Populations: African-Centered Clinical Interventions