Introduction

Our awareness of the challenges facing the world is greater than ever before in history. I've decided to write so that I can remember how I feel and what I think when the faces and voices of disadvantaged, marginalized, oppressed, persecuted, and forgotten people invade my comfortable existence. Otherwise, I would probably end up pushing these people out of my mind, never participating with others in shaping a reality that much better reflects the existence intended for mankind from the beginning of time.