I have felt the pain, sweat, blood, and tears.
I have seen victory a thousand times, beyond my reach.
I have had the pat on the back, the smile
Of a frown in my face.
I am a symbol of your wrong.
I am reminded of the past, but not the future.
I am Black—proud to be Black.
While growing up, Ron Whitlock experienced not only racism and prejudice, but also love and acceptance from many who did not look like him.
In a debut collection, Whitlock shares poems that lyrically address a wide range of topics and themes that include love, race, faith, and much more. As his poetry reveals a glimpse into his personal journey and perspectives, he explores what it means to be Black in America, faith and hope, life itself, and love as he learned to navigate through and achieve victory over the pitfalls and obstacles in his way, accept and love others with an open heart, and find strength in God's unconditional love.
In the Eyes of an Old Black Man is a volume of free verse that candidly reflects on the personal journey of a man of faith as he embraced the colorful experiences of life.