Broken Mirror By: Gerald O'Brien

To the countless Black men and women who navigate the unforgiving streets of our

communities, facing systemic injustices with unwavering resilience. This story is a

testament to your strength, your spirit, and your enduring hope. It is dedicated to

those who have been lost to violence, not just the victims, but also the perpetrators,

their lives a tragic reflection of broken systems and the crushing weight of societal

pressures. It is a dedication to the unsung heroes who strive to build bridges and

mend the cracks in our communities, a recognition of the tireless work done in the

face of seemingly insurmountable odds. This book is for the mothers, fathers, sisters,

and brothers who bear the brunt of the violence, carrying the weight of loss and

longing for a better tomorrow. This is for the children who deserve a future where

their potential is not stifled by the shadows of poverty, prejudice, and violence, a

future where broken mirrors reflect whole lives and bright futures. It is a dedication

to the power of human connection, a testament to our shared humanity and the

possibility of healing and reconciliation, even amidst the deepest despair. It is for you,

the unsung, the overlooked, the unheard, who deserve to be seen, heard, and

understood.