Village Pearls

Introduction
“I am a true believer in [this statement]: If you do not know where you came from (history), it is difficult to know where you are (present place in time) and to know where you are going (the future).
As our children become adults rather quickly, we wish to impart to them as much family history and knowledge as possible. The Bible is a record of Jesus’ Word and life. In the Bible it clearly provides the history of tribes (families) and demonstrates how one generation flows and affects the next generation (positively or negatively) . . .
Let us not forget those that have gone before us; let us develop those that are here with us; and let us prepare the way for those who will come after us.” (May 31, 2004, The Legacy Newsletter)

Kevin Anthony Miller

The purpose of this book is not to remain stuck in the past, but to fuel a divine journey into the future. To accomplish this, Village Pearls will expose episodes of my life and introduce readers to amazing people who have influenced and guided my life and positively impacted this world.
There may be a tendency for human beings to believe we achieved our status in life on our own strength and abilities. However, former First Lady, Senator, and Secretary of State of the United States, Hillary Clinton, emphasized and popularized this familiar (and controversial) statement—"It takes a village.”
I strongly believe that each of the individuals presented in the pages of this book were providentially and intricately assigned to create my village. These Unsung Heroes lived on purpose and made a difference everywhere they traveled and lived. Each contributed significantly to my life, the life of others, and our village. An unsung hero is a person who does great deeds but receives little or no recognition. However, one of the essential lessons I gleaned from my village experience is “Not everyone is called to be famous; but everyone is called to influence people.”
I realize there is usually a tendency to glamorize the past or view it through rose-colored glasses. However, that is not the objective of this book. Every story and event presented in this book is accurately communicated. I am in no way implying that these were perfect people. They had their flaws, as we all do. However, their primary intention and purpose is/was to please God and help people. In doing so, they lived productive lives and left examples that have long-term historical effects. By highlighting their lives, I hope to encourage people to live a life that begins with loving God and loving people.
I wrote this book with heart-felt love and gratitude for God, my ancestors, and future generations. To summarize the introductory quote from my dearly departed husband, it is important that we who are still here live in such a way that we construct a worthy path for present and future generations. May the stories of these Unsung Heroes of my past inspire you to live a life of love and make a positive deposit in your village.