God is the creator of all things, and when it comes to expressing the gratitude in my heart, for me, that’s where it begins.
The creation of this book has been divinely guided, and I would like to thank those individuals who helped shape my vision into these pages. My publisher and editors at Gotham Books: William Shinker, Lauren Marino, and Hilary Terrell. My incredibly supportive book team: Stephanie Covington; Danielle DeJesus; Margaret Dunlap; Keith Major; Voltaire Sterling; Darrell Smith; David Vigliano; Elisa Petrini; Lisa Sorensen; Guy Dunn, Jr.; Jesse Shane; Dylan Chapman; my aunt, Ercelle Pinckney; and my mother, Marilyn Hill Harper.
Heartfelt thanks to my friends and colleagues who through their thoughtful e-mails in this book gave generously of their time and wisdom.
And special acknowledgement and thanks to Marvet Britto and everyone at The Britto Agency. Without championing this project from the beginning, the book you see today would not have been possible.
And thanks to my friends, family, and ancestors who have always encouraged me to take risks, to live a life of unreasonable happiness, and to create works that seek to uplift the human spirit.
And finally, thank-you to all of the teachers I have had throughout my life who have fostered in me a love of learning, including those spiritual teachers who have shown me the importance and necessity of taking God along on my journey.