By Brother Jesse Muhammad
I just finished another excellent book. I think you should go and get it A-S-A-P. Not now, but right now!
I am a self-proclaimed member of the righteous nerd ring of book traffickers and read-a-holics who love to digest books; no matter if it’s a hard copy or a digital download. Funny thing is I had told myself I would not buy any new books in 2014, because I felt I hadn’t applied enough of the guidance, principles, strategies, etc., inside of the tons of books occupying my shelves, briefcases and backpacks.
Well, that ‘goal’ didn’t work because I still found myself getting a few books here and there these past few months. I confess: I am more into shelfies than selfies! (Smile)
So, what is this new book you should get A-S-A-P? Well, interestingly, it’s titled “A.S.A.P.” which is an acronym for “A Street Activist’s Perspective.”Houston-based community servant, organizer, speaker, and author, Deric Muhammad, penned it and released it this summer. He’s called many other grandiose titles, however, to me he’s my big brother, sibling, and friend, whom I am very happy for and inspired by.
When I was reading this book it had a different effect than most I’ve read because it’s coming from an author whom I have personally watched strive to have his works congruent with his words. This book is not a mere intellectual exercise in fruitless commentary, hollow theories and analysis with INactivism. (Is that a word? It is now). It’s what he says in his introduction: “The perspective of an on the ground activist striving to help my people through every-day struggles we face.”
How could he have a street activist’s perspective if he wasn’t out in the streets? Since becoming a member of the Nation of Islam under the leadership of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan over 20 years ago, I’ve seen him transform from a menace to society (yeah, like the movie) to a budding man of God, addicted to fighting for justice for the little man and woman in the streets. He can’t help himself. He eats, sleeps, and drinks the A.S.A.P. mentality. It’s not a cliché; it’s a way of life for him.
