40 Acres & A Mule Today

The Cost of a Broken Promise

In 1865, Union General William Tecumseh Sherman issued Special Field Orders No. 15, promising 40 acres of tillable land to newly freed Black families. Later, the military agreed to lend mules to these families to help work the soil.

This directive, which became known simply as "40 acres and a mule," was a foundational attempt to provide self-sufficiency and economic independence. It wasn't charity; it was the baseline capital required to build a life.

When President Andrew Johnson overturned the order months later, returning the land to former slaveholders, it became one of the most devastating economic reversals in American history.

The Numbers: Then vs. Now

What happens when we look at the raw data behind this broken promise? If we track the value of that original asset against modern real estate markets, the financial gap is staggering:

• In 1865: The total value of 40 acres and a working mule was estimated at roughly $250 per family.

• In 2026: If you were to secure a 40-acre parcel of premium land in Maryland today, the estimated value reaches approximately $3,019,760 to $3,022,360 per family.

The True Cost: Generational Wealth

If the U.S. government were to settle this historical account based on the true modern value of the original promise, the figures reach into the trillions on a national scale.

This massive difference isn't just a reflection of inflation; it represents compounded real estate appreciation—the primary engine of generational wealth in America. When land was stripped away, the ability to equity-build, pass down property, and fund future generations went with it.

Looking at the numbers today reminds us that economic conversations about equity aren't about handouts; they are about an outstanding balance that has been accruing interest for over 160 years.

You Never Know the true power of a promise until you look at the cost of breaking it. 

By Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr.™

Supporting a Friend Through the Ultimate Loss: The Non-Understanding Bridge

 Supporting a Friend Through the Ultimate Loss: The Non-Understanding Bridge 

By Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr™ of YOU NEVER KNOW FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL™

When someone we love is drowning in the severe depression that follows the unimaginable loss of a child, our instinct is to search for words of comfort. We desperately want to say the right thing to fix their pain. But the truth is, unless we have walked that exact path, we cannot truly comprehend the scale of that loss.

We often think the best way to help is to understand exactly what they are going through—but what if our lack of understanding is actually our greatest strength?

The Reality of a Crushed Spirit 

When a parent loses a child, the injury isn't physical, but it is deeply real. We look at them and see their body, but the body simply holds the spirit. In severe depression, it is the spirit man that is crushed and in a low state.

Because this wound is entirely internal, the parent themselves is often still trying to figure out how to process it. If they don't fully understand the depth of their own brokenness yet, we certainly cannot. Admitting our lack of understanding isn't a failure; it is an honest acknowledgment of how massive their mountain is.

Moving from Fixer to Witness 👁️

When we stop trying to pretend we understand, something incredible happens: we create a safe haven. 

If we say, "I know exactly how you feel," we accidentally minimize their unique pain. But when we are honest and say, "I cannot possibly understand this depth of pain, but I am not going anywhere," a heavy weight lifts. The grieving parent realizes they don’t have to put on a brave face, act normal, or explain their grief to keep us around. They are allowed to be completely broken.

How to Cross the Bridge Daily 

So, how do we show up on a day-to-day basis when there are no right words? We stop looking for them. Instead, we show up to do two of the hardest, yet most healing things possible:

• We listen: We let them speak without trying to offer solutions or silver linings. 

• We weep: We share in their sorrow rather than trying to cheer them up. 

They don't need a lecture on hope or a checklist of advice. They need a witness to their pain. By sitting in the silence and crying with them, we send a powerful message: "Your pain is too big for me to understand, but it is not too big for me to stay."

Healing a crushed spirit takes internal time. You cannot speed up the process, but you can hold their hand while they walk through the dark. 

Let's Chat 

Have you ever felt helpless trying to comfort a grieving friend? How did you show up for them? Let's share our experiences in the comments below.

THE POWER OF CONTROL

The Power of Control: What a Former Manager Taught Me About True Kindness

By SrTerence™

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Kindness is a practice. It’s not a silent feeling; it’s better understood as an intention or an attitude. I’ve witnessed people who state they are kind while performing unkind actions. Kindness only truly becomes visible and impactful when it translates into how we interact with others.

When I think of kindness, I think of a former co-worker who was one of the kindest people on this planet. I’ve never met anyone more kind.

We worked on a project together for months, and not once did I see her be unkind to anyone. She was a manager and the team lead on all our projects, and it was an absolute joy to come to work with her leading the way. What was so impressive was how she handled those who were disruptive to the project—talk about "killing them with kindness."

The Office Meeting

I wanted to ask her about it, but I didn't quite know how. Then, I remember her calling me into her office one day. This was my opportunity, and I was so nervous.

"Ms. Kim?" I said.

She looked up and replied, "Yes?"

"Can I ask you a personal question?"

"Sure, Terence."

"Why are you so kind to everyone, Ms. Kim?"

She smiled and said, "It’s a power of control."

"It is?" I asked.

"Yes, Terence. I don’t like people controlling my behavior."

"I don’t like people controlling my behavior."

— Ms. Kim

"But Ms. Kim, some people still don’t like you."

"I know each of them clearly, Terence," she said.

I said, "WOW!"

That hit me like a punch, and we both started laughing so hard. Then she said, "Not one of them knows how I truly feel about them, and I’m their supervisor, Terence."

I began laughing even harder. She smiled, and then I paused.

"Wait, Ms. Kim... you are my manager."

She started laughing louder and smiled. "You are correct. Terence, do you have any other questions for me?"

"No, thanks for your time, Ms. Kim!"

The Takeaway: Kindness is Power

As I walked out of her office that day—and to this very day—I still don’t know how she actually felt about me. However, what I do know is that Ms. Kim was incredibly kind to everyone, and she changed my life with her kindness and wisdom.

Ms. Kim taught me a profound lesson in emotional intelligence: True kindness isn't weak or passive. It is the ultimate boundary. When you choose kindness, you refuse to let the negative energy, bad moods, or difficult behaviors of other people dictate who you are. You maintain absolute control over your own character.

Kindness is powerful.

What do you think?

Have you ever met a leader like Ms. Kim who mastered the art of "killing with kindness"? How do you maintain control over your behavior when dealing with difficult people? Leave a comment below—I’d love to read your stories!

MY REVIEW ON LIBERTY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY

All -

I want to share something with my followers. Recently, a lady backed into my truck. It was parked. No one was hurt. The driver of the car left the scene of the accident. Thank God there were cameras, and we could get the tags. I reported the accident to the insurance company, which is Liberty Mutual, after the police officer instructed me to do so. Once they identify the driver and get their insurance information, they're trying to settle.

This has been very interesting. Liberty Mutual agreed that they are liable for my damages, and I'll tell you—the way they handle my case will determine whether I'll ever do business with them or recommend their company. Because the way you're treated when something goes wrong will reveal how they'll treat you when everything is right. Honestly, I would never recommend this insurance company for automotive or homeowners.

This has been the longest process and is still not completed. There's a saying that when you treat someone well, they'll tell 10 people, but when you treat someone poorly in business, they'll tell 100 people. Well, I hope this message reaches more than 100 people, and I hope people will take my advice and start switching their policies if they have Liberty Mutual. We see these advertisements, but they're not standing by their advertisements.

I would also suggest that if you have auto insurance, you immediately look for another provider, and probably you'll get a better rate. This company is not interested in enjoying good business or standing by you in a time of an accident. They're very much interested in keeping what's important to them and not what's fair to their client.

My other suggestion: if you've had them for over two years, I guarantee you're not being kind to yourself, so don't wait to be involved in an accident. You can use my wisdom to save yourself time and energy and go with someone else. I would even suggest Geico or Nationwide Insurance; they stand behind their reputation.

I know all insurance companies need to make a profit; however, we can expect 100% good service because we pay a premium monthly. When an auto insurance company takes advantage of you, please don't be quiet, and we can help each other not only save money but also promote companies that do good by us. Rarely do I write a review on any company, but this has been so difficult to deal with—a company that truly doesn't care. I had to write and share it with others.

V/R.,

Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr., 

A Plate of Love

By Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr.

One plate remains, a space now bare,

A seat at the table, once filled with care.

One less gift to buy, a gift beyond compare,

A memory we hold, a love that's still there.

Each child a snowflake, unique and grand,

We pause to remember, to cherish this land.

In winter's silence, we hear your voice,

A whisper of love, a heartfelt choice.

Your uniqueness shone, a light so bright,

A beacon of hope, in morning's delight.

Though your plate may be missing, your presence felt,

Your love, kindness, and generosity, our hearts have selt.

In every snowflake, we see your face,

A reminder of love, a warm, gentle place.

We'll celebrate you, in every falling star,

Forever in our hearts, near and far.

™ by SrTerence

Togetherness True

Togetherness True TM

by SrTerence

Togetherness weaves a gentle thread,

Focused love, where hearts are fed.

In life's quiet moments, they stand as one,

Kindness fills their soul, with love that's won.

Appreciation and love, in every gentle way,

Together they thrive, in a loving day.

A love that's soft, and strong, and free,

A bond that's woven, just for them to see.

Togetherness is a connection true,

A blanket of affection, moving them anew.

In the same direction, they face each test,

Together, their love will forever find its best.

Oceans apart, miles can't define,

Their love, peace, and happiness, forever intertwined.

 From: Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr.,

Michael Jordan was on this planet 21 years before LeBron James. 

Do you know, what’s great about an individual when they recognize the walls that were knocked down, the path that were made better and smoothed out. For their existence? It’s called honor and respect.

The respect that is given, like Mike Tyson  given respect to Muhammad Ali, sometimes there are people who can just look back and recognize how great an individual was, and respect how their life was made a little bit easier because of that greatness. 

Respect to Mike Tyson, who has publicly acknowledged the greatness of Muhammad Ali, which makes Mike Tyson great.

Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr.,

YOU

 My friends each of you are a marvel a wonder of God’s work.

Your body is a miracle take a moment and touch something, smell something and look at something.

When your hand picks up a cup of water for a drink notice it.

Think how many systems are operating just so you can drive a car.

You can pick up a book and read (awesome).

Somehow a person can take a stick put it into paint and create a beautiful picture.

Somehow someone can look at a tree and see a guitar, chair, table and paper.

Someone can see a branch and a rope and see a meal.

Some can feel a beat and create a song.

Someone once said “stop and smell the roses.”

Take care of yourself. What are you not noticing about you? What are you not grateful about you?

~ TEG

JOY

 

Hello it’s TEG,

Joy was sitting on the beach watching and noticed that no one was seeking joy. So joy got up saying “I’m going to the hospital, I know someone there will recognize me.”

Joy when into the rooms after rooms, but no one acknowledged joy --- many were asleep, sick and upset. Than joy said “I’m going to church (with a smile) many there will be familiar with me.”

Joy enters the church took a seat and notice, people praying, worshipping, peaching and crying. Some were upset over money, titles and the sound of the music.

Joy said I’ll stick around for bible classes because countless will be pleased to see me one on one. Joy again notice them giving their testimonies, studying, typing on their devices. Not one needed Joy?

So Joy noticed a park --- saying: “I’ll roam around there for a while.” A little dog came running up to joy jumping, spinning and wagging its tail, they had so much fun. The owner of the dog witness this and came running, yelling, oh thank you, thank you I’ve been looking all over the park for you. As the owner took the dog away the little dog looked back to see Joy one more time.

Are you looking for Joy, because Joy is looking for you? See — Nehemiah 8:10 

By Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr.,

GRIEF

There is an emptiness inside, and now I understand why some call it lost, because it feels that way. Any parent who child transitioned before them understand what I’m writing.

The emptiness has no words. Many kindhearted people want to be of help; some have a difficult time understanding there is nothing they can say or do. Your prayers, silence and tears are plenty.

Think about it this way:

1.      You can’t cry for me.

2.      You can’t scream for me.

3.      You can’t breathe for me.

4.      You can’t pray for me.

Winston Churchill said, on the death of his daughter. “His wife cry sounded like a wounded animal”

Today I’m asking God the Father in prayer to fill every parent around the world emptiness with his love. My hope is that any parent reading this knows someone understands your emptiness.

In-addition/ God place in your life good listeners, friends and family members, who may not understand your wound, but, know you are a beautiful creation of a loving God also.

NOTE: Proverbs: 18:21 “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr.,

Ian Joseph Gray

 

 

 

It’s Terence Sr.,

Peace, blessings and love to all the readers. Jesus did not ask us or tell us; Jesus commanded us, to love everybody!!! This is not a choice. We his people do not get to decide. Yes, I know you will do your own thing. I’m talking to those who confessed Jesus is Lord! I’m writing to the few who’s seeking the Kingdom Of God.

 

Yes speaking to those who said, “not my will be done, yours be done Father God.” Those who believe God so love the WORLD! I’m not talking to those who believe; “God so love them he gave his only son to them?” Who act like, it is God and them, and everybody else can go to plank!

 

However, I’m talking to those who act like, be like and do like Jesus; by loving their neighbors as themselves.

I’m talking to those who believe the prayer Jesus gave us; our Father! OUR FATHER!! He did not say his Father, your Father! He said OUR, OUR, our, Yes!!! 

The Son of God, our King, Lord and savior commanded us to love everybody!! 

 

~Breath~

 

John 15:12-13: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” ~ Jesus!

 

Matthew 5:44

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” ~ Jesus! 

 

Now for some meat     

John 14:21

“Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them." ~ Jesus! 

 

NOTE: We should never question God concerning his children. Don’t sit yourself up for failure.

 

Lesson plan A

 

Do your own research (DYOR)

 

Love & peace

 

~TEG~

MY CONVERSATION WITH LOVE

Awoke today and love said to me I love you. Hello love good morning. Love you are my every-thing; last night I dreamed of you and now you are here? Love just laughed and said son I am your dream. Oh love and I had a good time this morning. Love will you always stay with me? Love laughed and again and said I AM love you couldn’t be without me. Sometimes love it seems as if I’m not? Son that’s why I woke you up this morning in my love. Oh I said! Love laugh for the third time and said “son love what I love.” what is that love? You! ~ TEG

IF THE USA WAS A BODY

Republicans and Democrats are in a battle 

on who will be its brain. 

The heart is Congress.

The lungs are House of representatives 

and the Senate.

The governors are the liver.

The mayors are kidneys. 

The rest of the body is voting. 

@srTerence

 

MY DEAREST CHILD

Hello my dear friends and family! I pray everyone is doing well. I’ve been working on something that I wanted to share with you all. It’s a letter that I envisioned God writing me if He chose to write one. My hope that this blesses someone today!

FROM:HEAVEN

MY DEAREST CHILD,

I’m writing you to let you know how much I love you! You are the apple of my eye! While I was creating you in my image, I realized how perfect you are in my eyes! Don’t let anyone else tell you that you are opposite of that, especially the enemy! For he is the father of lies and does his best to separate you from me. Here is the good news! No one has the power to pull you away from my loving hands! I know sometimes you may think that your mistakes cause me to turn away from you, however, that is simply not true! I am with you even then, so that I may turn that mistake into a blessing! My desire is that you have great faith in me, knowing that I will never leave you or forsake you. In life you will face challenges in order to receive the lessons I have you and through those lessons, may your eyes be opened to see the blessings I have already given you and will continue to give you. My desire for you is to have a joyful and abundantly rich life while you are there on Earth! If you would only know the full depth of my love for you my child! I believe you are aware how far I have gone to prove that love to you by sending my only Son Jesus to be the living sacrifice for you!

I value you my wonderful child, you are worth more than rubies or diamonds. I assure you that you are very important to me. You see my child, I have a purpose for you, which is for your good and my glory. Don’t let outside noise like fear and uncertainty distract you from full-filling your purpose. Stay close to me my child and I will not lead you astray! I really miss talking with you. I know a lot of times your life can get very busy, but don’t let that stop you from talking to me. I am close to you when you pray to me, when you are reading my Word and pursuing my Son Jesus! Come boldly to my throne and ask me the desires of your heart. Whatever you seek, you will find in me! I want you to know that I’m always here with you and I hear everything you pray about. I miss the conversations we used to have about everything going on in your life, even though I already know. I want to be involved in every part of your life. Remember my child as you strive to increase your faith, add the following ingredients: virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. I love you my child and I wait patiently to hear from you again!

WITH ALL OF MY LOVE,

YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER

By Mr. Nick Abraham Carter

Choosing to be a better person

You can always choose to be a better person. Choosing to be a better person has no age restrictions.

It is not limited to, your occupation; it is of your choosing. It is the one thing you can’t blame another; as you can’t blame them from the air you are breathing, gender or the color of your skin.

As I’ve conversed over the year with individuals it appear as if they are waiting for some type of intervention or for something or someone to make them better.

If you are not better towards being a better individual when you are with you, and you don’t like being with you. Why would you ever believe others will enjoy someone you don’t enjoy being with?

So I’ve come to this conclusion.

The betterment of me is for the enjoyment of others.

With love,

Mr. Terence Efrem Gray Sr.