his mother and is initially raised by a caring woman (who is not related), and two groups of Black women - Catholic nuns and prostitutes in Washington, DC. Without their joint efforts, he projects that his life could have been plagued by negative outcomes. His life also takes a drastic turn as he experiences a new living arrangement following adoption. He evolves from being a gang member to ultimately becoming a university president, and he pays homage to the women in his life who nurtured his successful journey. His story captures the landscape of Black and White cultures as he struggles to find meaning throughout his life.