Page 268 - SurrenderTheBaggage-FBK

Jerry Torrence - I grew up in Buffalo, N.Y.
My brother and sister and I were initially
raised by a single mom in the projects in
what can only be described as the inner-
city. When my mom married an Army
Sergeant, the newly formed family of five
children, moved to the suburbs. This
made the Torrence family the first black
family in an all-white neighborhood.
Unknowingly at the time, this difference in environment and
culture imbued in me a recognition and appreciation of diversity
among people.

Our parents taught us that to be respected, we first must give
respect. My father stressed that character, not skin color makes
the person. He emphasized never use our so-called race as a
crutch or an excuse. Despite the blessings, and yes, some
challenges of growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood
these lessons proved true and valuable and continue to do so
today. As I became an adult, I began to wonder why anyone would
limit their self-identity to the amount of melanin in their skin. When I
became a Christian, I realized that my identity is a matter of “Whose” I
am, not who I am. My relationships with people are not based on
ethnicity or skin color. They are based on character and heart. JESUS
said it best in Matthew 12:50, “For whoever does the will of my
FATHER in Heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

I believe Ernie and I were knitted together in Spirit long ago for such a
time as this. Despite our distinctly different backgrounds, we share the
same heart and passion to communicate GOD’s heart regarding such
issues as so-called race. I pray our words reflect HIS heart and provide
a blessing to the reader.

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