Book excerpt: Through poetry this book provides insightful reflections on the attributes of and imperative for human decency in one’s personal life and in the process of national development. Focusing on Liberia, the book illuminates aspects of the country’s history, particularly its war and postwar situation as well as the challenges for development. The book further advocates the need for patriotism, peace, knowledge, integrity and capacity building while conveying a message that development should not be regarded solely by the level of material wealth, but also by how it touches human life and whether it protects or undermines the dignity of people.