John Mingo"s collection of poems and prose rises out of the author"s experiences with Jim Crow, drug use and users, and the prison system, and tracking the author"s rise from hell to redemption, from despair to hope. "It seems fitting that John [Mingo] has produced this collection under the title It Takes A Thief. Saint Dysmas is the name that Christian tradition gives to the thief that hung on the cross next to Jesus Christ. In the 23rd chapter of Luke, as both were dying, Dysmas calls out, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus replies, "Today you will be with me in Paradise." For many it takes a thief to reveal that those who suffer at the hands of human justice can be restored through faith. I give thanks for the ongoing work of God in John Mingo, and the gift of his poetry. May this book fill you with compassion for those who made mistakes and served their time." --William Lundgren, Pastor, the Community of Saint Dysmas