Joyce A. Ladner The Ties That Bind: Timeless Values for African American Families djvu

How do we strengthen our children's souls? How do we fortify them with a sense of obligation, hope, faith, trust, and a burning desire to achieve? In this wise and important book, you will discover unlimited answers that are yours for the taking—the keys to raising children with strong values and a positive sense of purpose and identity. Today's children—many of them blessed with more material wealth and education than any generation before—greet the world with a sense of uneasiness at best, and, at worst, a sense of despair. In The Ties That Bind, Dr. Joyce Ladner, an eminent sociologist, shows how we can empower more children with the self-confidence that will sustain them throughout their lives. Keeping the promise of her own tradition-rich Mississippi upbringing, Dr. Ladner passes on the timeless treasure of African American values. A leading scholar and activist, she reveals how each generation taught the next a vital set of lessons in values. Drawing insight from everyday heroes, family stories, and personal experiences as a mother of a growing son, she brings those lessons to life and shapes them for our times. Step by step, she teaches the authentic principles of the historic black value system. Finally, she demonstrates how you can pass on this legacy in a way that children will absorb through dozens of simple, everyday activities for home, church, school, and community life. The Ties That Bind will help you give your children the foundation they need through their growing years and beyond. Let this enriching book with its healing lessons guide and nourish your family. "A superb book reminding us of the critical need to impart to our children the traditional values that have sustained our people through centuries of struggle and pain. We forget or ignore all that we have long known at our peril, for these principles are our heritage and our hope for the future." —Marian Wright Edelman President, The Children's Defense Fund. "A practical guide for today, and for a better tomorrow. Drawing from a rich personal and family history, as well as from over 30 years of academic endeavor, Dr. Ladner establishes the basic principles of the African American value system. If you care about African American people, then you must read this book." —Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole former President, Spelman College. "A wonderful book. Evocative of my own childhood and upbringing, it recalls and catalogues those homey virtues that we need to figure out how to recapture in these different and dangerous times. Dr. Ladner's prescriptions are a major step in that direction." —William Raspberry The Washington Post. "A crucial template for parents, youth workers, educators, and community groups working closely with young people. It outlines the essential elements necessary to center our youth and promote their healthy development and well-being." —Hugh B. Price President, National Urban League. "A masterpiece of scholarship . . . drawing on history and culture, on biography and family studies, economics, politics, sociology, and religion." —Andrew Billingsley Professor, University of South Carolina. "An inspirational and compelling book. Everyone committed to preserving African American values should read it. Lost values lead to lost children. Dr. Ladner offers practical guidance to ensure that black children thrive as bearers of our proud legacy. The Ties That Bind is a must for your home library." —Alvin F. Poussaint, M.D. Harvard Medical School.