As I reflect on God’s grace, I also recall the difficulties I have faced. For example, 2022 was a challenging year for me. My mother fell gravely ill and passed away, and in the same year, I witnessed how dark and vicious people can become when they are driven by selfish desires. I saw how unchecked ambition led to betrayal—even rebellion against God. In their narcissism, some abused “freedom,” becoming arrogant, feeling superior, and even imposing their views upon others. They pursued their goals through oppression, envied what others possessed, and even sought to destroy others. They stood above all others, heedless of anyone else. Having glimpsed the darkness within human nature, I also came to appreciate the preciousness of friendship. Some bonds faded like the wind, while others, forged over just a few years, grew ever stronger and more resilient—free of pretense or artifice, sustained by trust, mutual reminding, and encouragement. These experiences moved me to write a sequel to my books HUMANITY AND VIRTUE and FRIENDSHIP OF THE HEART AND SPIRIT....