Respecting the Soul: Daily Reflections for Black Lesbians and Gays

This book is a real gem for meditation. It is pocket-sized, and each page correspond to a day in the calendar. Keith assign each month to a particular skill (such as self-confidence), and each page contains three sections: a quote from a famous black personality, a text elaborating on the quote, and at the bottom an affirmation about what to do (for instance: "From today, I will help others believe in themselves"). Each page reads quickly, and leaves you to meditate on it. What I like about it is that it is very spiritual, but is not "pushing" any particular religion, unlike most other spiritual books. The book itself is very respectful of you, but gives you truths to meditate on. It is highly targeted to people from minorities, notably black/gay, but this book is a great resource for anybody who does not feel like they belong to the "mainstream." Personally, this book has been of a tremendous help after I made a major depression, and has helped me at work and at play to be a better person. I have stopped being cynical, and I have opened myself to others. My boyfriend offered me a copy years ago, and it has been a continuous read for me since then. I always find a page I forgot to read or that I understand differently. I wish it was still in print, because I have many friends I would like to give the book to. If you want a new copy of this book, you might stand a better chance of finding it in a store--it seems out-of-print--but otherwise get the used version, mine stood very well the shuffling. Plus, the cover is beautiful, and will look cool on your night stand. From the same author, suggested reading is "One more river to cross: being black and gay in America," though this is more of a book to read from cover to cover than a book to meditate on, but still an incredible source of information and insight. Keith, since you will probably read this: thank you so much. "Respecting the soul" is on my nightstand, and has been a huge participant in turning my life around.

Keith Boykin has done it again. This brotha has really got it going on. Everyone in the Black gay community should own a copy of his inspirational book.

Keith Boykin has once again pioneered and delivers a soul inspiring daily meditation guide for black gays and lesbians. His commentary on love, faith, courage, determination and other topics offers thought-provoking food for thought and encouragement. His daily inspirations are not only spiritually moving, but also intellectually stimulating. This book is a must read for all L/G/B/T people. Finally, Respecting the Soul makes the perfect gift for all occasions.

Keith Boykin masterfully chronicles an inspirational piece that can only encourage the often discouraged and uplift the down trodden. Keith Boykin is a light in the lives of those who often find them selves in the dark shadows of abandonment and homophobia. A MUST READ for every L/G/B/T person, their famliy and friends. Boykin's latest offering is the breath of fresh air that the community has been looking for.

An inspirational and thought provoking work of prose on a much needed topic at a much needed time.A wake up call to the sleeping giant known as the African American community. Snippets and food for thought for the new millenium. Black gay literature.. It's not your father's Oldsmobile kidd. LOL