My Debt to You: A mother's vision, a father's passion (PB) (2022)

In My Debt to You, Elvage G. Murphy shares his personal, and honest story about how his father and mother, who endured the harsh realities of Jim Crow, prepared him and his brother to navigate a world they knew would not be colorblind. From the perspectives of a lawyer, and educator, this story captures and illustrates the values imparted to him by his parents that provided a unique understanding of the reality of racism and discrimination that he would encounter. From a very young age, he was expected to overcome this reality without submitting to the rage and hate that accompanies its impact. It is an uplifting story for anyone who seeks to understand the day-to-day reality of facing bigotry without becoming victimized by it. It is also an insightful look into the dynamics of an American black family, and the uniqueness of black parenting.

He also shares his insights and convictions about how intentional parents must be when formulating a vision for their children, and calls for the rejection of a culture that undermines the values of truth, justice and forgiveness. It is a story to which every man, woman and child can relate. It is a story about learning to adopt and live with a balanced perspective of the world and its people, rejecting extremism that incites division. It is a story that expresses a son's life-long appreciation and gratitude to a father and mother who challenged him to live up to standards that transcend the racial divide within our nation. It is the story of a debt owed that takes a lifetime to repay.