[darling1]

i started not to respond to this post because i don't like conversations about black male shortages--they lead to discussion that liken themselves to male bashing and thats not cool.

i think the article should have been titled differently---something like a Brother's Guide to Healthy Living for the Future

anyway, i am a believer that like any mammal we are subject to darwin's rules of survival of the fittest. there have been factors past and current that have influenced how we live and under what conditions. the article discusses how social ills have adversely affected the success rate of black men in this society. this is nothing new. what i do appreciate about the article is that someone has taken the time to provide some 'self-help' information similar to what many of our female-centered magazines provide.

we as a community do need to be accountable for what is happening to our men. i have no suggestions on how to go about this, but what i do know is that i will work at making sure my nephews and godson learn the importance of being a good citizen, having respect, courtesy, desire more than their parents, and respecting their elders. these qualities are LACKING and go a long way in ensuring that the 'shortage' is simply that instead of outright distinction.