How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Muslims have a reputation of sticking together and taking care of their members' problems, not unlike any other family, where the individual's problem becomes the problem of the group. (10.45)
It's a good thing members of Islam treat each other like family—Shaka is in prison, separated by miles and bars from his own loving family, so the Melanic Brotherhood is where he finds something like family in the tough environment of prison.
Quote #8
We stood as the program began. The brothers formed a ten-man prayer pyramid, moving in a counterclockwise motion and calling out to our ancestors. I was impressed by the precision of their movements. It was anawesome display of power, respect, and spirituality. In an uncompromising display of solidarity, the brothers paid homage to those who had come before us while praising the Creator for a chance to do something meaningful with our lives. (10.48)
The connection to history and each other that Shaka finds in the Melanics is really important to him. He wants to connect with God in a way that also honors the culture and history of Black people.
Quote #9
I continued to absorb as much wisdom as I could during the study sessions with the older [Melanic] brothers. We called these sessions "building," because their point was to help us construct new lives for ourselves based on spiritual and cultural principles of reciprocity, love, and compassion. "No matter what you do while you are in here," Baruti would tell me, "never give up on learning and trying to be a better person." I didn't always listen to him, but over the years, I would find all that he shared with me to be of great value.(14.39)
One cool thing about wisdom shared by others in Shaka's spiritual community? It sticks with him even if he's not ready to hear it right away. Has something like this ever happened to you, with spiritual or secular advice?