An update to an ongoing discussion with our Asian and Asian-American friends. We tried to apologize in some of our earlier messages delivered through texting, blogging and on the iPhone, but unfortunately those efforts were mixed in with some defensiveness on our part.  After those unsuccessful efforts we decided to “go quiet” publicly while we sought  to reach out to those who raised the issue for a meaningful discussion.  Those discussions took place yesterday and as soon as possible and when appropriate, we will share the fruits of those discussions on our blog.

Until then, while we appreciate the comments about the quality of the intent and subject matter of Deadly Viper, we deeply regret anything we did to offend our Christian brothers and sisters in the Asian and Asian-American communities.  After all, those brothers and sisters are part of the bigger community we all most cherish — the Christian community.  Again, that is why are we reaching out this afternoon to hear the concerns and the best way to move forward together in a positive way that corrects past mistakes, respects individual viewpoints and, importantly,  advances the ministry for everyone.

Zondervan, our publisher, reached out to us, and we explained the steps we are taking today and promised to keep them involved as we go forward. They have been very supportive of this process.

Mike Foster and Jud Wilhite are the authors of Deadly Viper Character Assassins: A Kung Fu Survival Guide for Life and Leadership.