I really value the final point. The rest doesn't affect me directly other than I shudder every single time someone of ANY color wants public validation from some public figure to boost their delicate egos or standing, or whatever the case may be. Such efforts nearly always end in disaster for everyone, for so-called "honest feedback" is in the eyes of the one offering the feedback, and the one on the receiving end, if miffed, will turn to their supporters for validation and the right to piss on the source of the feedback. it's a minefield to say the least. It's nunna mine to speak to the aspects of this which are Black culture, but but more so to your points about ministry and the trouble it can get any of us in. If we insist on seeking validation from those who wield some kind of power (perceived or real) we run the risk of having someone do such a public takedown.

Your very important point about the loss of Black men smack in their prime NOT from external but from health sources is essential. This story really got my attention a while back: https://www.modernhealthcare.com/people/kaiser-ceo-bernard-tyson-dies-unexpectedly-60

Tyson headed up a health company and he still died young. What that speaks to, in my mind, the unspeakable levels of stress visited on Black folks, most especially those in high profile, high stress positions which are already damned hard, but then when you put color into the equation, the stresses are trebled. That's been researched aplenty, but I want to underscore your point. A few years ago I spoke to an audience of Black PhDs and their families, and addressed the issue of diabetes. My entreaty was that the world desperately needs you, and to please mind your health. I have lost two very close Black family members to obesity-caused diabetes, it's personal to me, and we cannot afford to lose such talent. We need role models, and role models who are around long enough to transform Black lives, bring up more kids of their own and leave a very significant legacy.