PrintFebruary 24, 2014
When Black Americans Become Good Germans
African-Americans were the richest people ever to come to these shores.
They were billionaires -- in the realm of the soul.
Ever since then we have sung the harmonies forged by slaves in the crucible of their experience. We remember and cherish those in a way we don't embrace the melodies of the Polish coal miners, or Irish railroadmen, or Mexican charros.
Nobody impacted the culture as they did.
They were rich in grace.
When their political hopes were dashed after Reconstruction, then -- as often happens -- their religious commitment only deepened. (Compare China after Tiananmen Square.)
Next they were spread across the whole country, immigrating to form pockets in every state. They bore a fabulous heritage, and were ready to be leaven in every city's life.
Instead, what happened?
The light went out. It was extinguished. A massive damper was pulled over it; the glow was reserved for those inside. Black...(Read Full Article)
