African American Family and Faith

         We have discussed at length the role of faith in the lives of African Americans. As much as it is  a source of strength, it can also be problematic as we look at the role between acceptance, struggle, and seeking help. Many African Americans may feel as though God is their source of strength and refuge and yet for others it may be a source of conflict as they neglect to feel accepted by their peers or deny themselves the opportunity to be honest about their struggles. How is the faith of the African American a positive and a negative? How does the role of faith pose a problem for the gay person, those in marital conflict, the strong African American woman, and the strong African American male who wants to seek counseling?  Looking at the articles, "the choice to be gay," African American Women's Spiritual Beliefs: A Guide to Treatment," and "Found: 85,000 Black Gay Households," how does spirituality play a negative and positive role? How does this affect the male or female in the lower quadrant?  How would the Nguzo Saba principle of Ujima and Imani break down these struggles?