Seeing Heaven in the Face of Black Men engages the reader in an informal and forthright “conversation”, sharing a “day in the life” journey through the emotional and psychological land mines created by race in America and then introduces a compelling approach for racial healing. Those who are applying this approach in such arenas as business, psychotherapy, social work, psychology and health related fields, are witnessing the impact it is having on relationships, the quality of service and the quality of the work environment.  It is time we applied it to the field of diversity and race relations.  So what am I talking about?

 Focusing on the Black/White divide, my book calls for a profound and dramatic transformation of consciousness on the part of both groups challenging them to ground that transformation in what it calls the “practicality of spirituality.” Before dismissing this as naïve or implausible consider the emotional quagmire and boxing match Blacks and Whites seem unable to extract themselves from and ask your self if a different vantage point isn’t needed from which to operate.

Spirituality, as defined in this book, is not necessarily connected to a particular religious affiliation though strength is often drawn from one.  It is an inner quality and depth of consciousness that realizes interconnectedness with all humanity. It impels us to act from our noble self.  Human beings have long drawn on it to move to “higher ground”, to deal with pain, raw emotions and anger and to root out undesirable qualities.  It is clear, from observing those who “tap” it, that it is not weak, impractical or superfluous; it is a real force for change! We admire the ability of others to draw on it but often fail to choose it for ourselves. 

Science, with neuroscience leading the way, is reinforcing the “practicality of spirituality” and its role as a powerful force for change as well as its role in creating an emotionally and mentally healthy way to live.

Finally, I believe when more Americans expect to want to and actually see heaven in the face of black men, a powerful milestone will have been reached in this country’s movement toward racial unity and justice. 

Testimonials for Tod’s presentations

Michele Chisholm says:
“Tod left me feeling that racial healing can take place! The ideas Tod has about spirituality are both practical and uplifting and can have a positive impact on anyone. I highly recommend him as a speaker.”

Daryl Dudley says:
“Your presentation was inspiring beyond words. Thank you for your commitment to truth. Thank you for being transparent about your struggle and your family. Thanks for going past the surface and giving us further discovery into who we REALLY are.”

Twanisha Mitchell says:
“Tod is one of the greatest facilitators and racial justice leaders I’ve ever worked with. He brilliantly focuses on the delicate issues of race and spirituality and helps us to understand how important spirituality and inner healing is to the process of overcoming racism and biased behavior. The YWCA has been fortunate enough to work with Tod and will continue to do so as we work to eliminate racism and empower women. I definitely recommend Tod as a speaker.”

Teresa Ismach
“Tod has a found a unique way to address spirituality as a tool for breaking down barriers across race and culture and to create outside the box ways to heal conflicts of any kind. His appeal to the best in all of us elevates the discussion on race and racism to a higher level. The manner in which he presents spirituality as a solution offers hope to all regardless of their belief in a religion. If you want meaningful answers I highly recommend him as a speaker or workshop leader.”

Testimonials for Tod’s book

Fiyah Oates says:
“What an incredible book!! I’m almost finished and simply love the approach. It’s novel and fresh! I will encourage everybody I know to read the book.” (Fiyah Oates initial response to the book).
After completing the book Fiyah stated the following:
“Wow, this book is off the chart. Never saw such an original and truthful approach to repair the social disparities in America meted out by race. I highly recommend it in so many arenas. They need to make this required reading in the public school system!! I will be spreading the word!”

Martin L Varner says:
Thank you, thank you, thank you damn near to death for writing this book…. I am so glad this book is in writing because it speaks the language of all the Black men I know…. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Janice Sadeghian says:
“I just finished reading Tod Ewing’s book “Seeing Heaven in the Face of Black Men” and was deeply moved by its content and message and the personal experiences, illustrative stories, and heartfelt passion with which it was written. Mr. Ewing reminds each of us that we have a role to play in healing the wounds of racism and building the bridge to a better future, and he makes it clear that this cannot be done without incorporating spirituality as an essential tool.
While it was necessary for me to read this book in installments, my desire was not to put it down until it was finished cover to cover. I will highly recommend this book to others.”