I AM A PRISONER OF HOPE

This book is written at a time when political divisiveness, polarization, extremism, hate crimes, xenophobia, and violence are increasing at an alarming rate. Furthermore, the racial inequality and injustices that led to the Civil Rights Movement have not been fully remedied. In "I Am A Prisoner of Hope," Samuel Lotegeluaki offers insight into the assumptions, attitudes, fears, and greed that have led to some of these current problems. He challenges readers to view themselves as stewards (not owners) of this earth and to look for what we have in common with others, rather than what divides us. Hope is seen as the driving force that sustains people through horrific circumstances and propels them to seek a better situation. Suggestions are made for how we might begin to heal the hurts and make the world a better place.

Samuel Lotegeluaki is Professor Emeritus in Psychology and Sociology at Concordia University, St. Paul. He holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Aquinas Institute of Philosophy, a Master of Divinity and Counseling Degree from Luther Seminary, a Bachelor of Divinity from Makumira Theological School (Tanzania) and a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Marangu Teacher's College (Tanzania). Prior to teaching psychology and sociology for 25 years, he was a psychotherapist at Lutheran Social Services. His writing is informed by his education, work experiences, and life both under colonial rule in Africa and as an immigrant and racial minority in the United States.