In a recent survey, 3 in 10 Americans admit to race bias. What's so appalling is that such a low percentage of white Americans have had regular contact with those of other races.

I admit I used to be one of them, and still hold on to a certain ingrained life-long pattern of prejudice. I grew up with and had many Hispanic friends, so I had no problem with them. Like those whites who were surveyed, I was totally distrusting of blacks. I admit my ignorance. And I am convinced that Ignorance leads to distrust.

About twelve years ago, my car broke down in Century City, CA. Out of all the people who drove by, it was two African American men who stopped to assist me. They went beyond lip service, and offered to take me to my destination. I reluctantly agreed - after all, they were black!

Well, they did exactly what they said they were going to do; not only taking me to my destination, but making a U-turn so that I wouldn't have to cross the street. I was deeply moved by their generosity, but unfortunately, returned to my old ways.

My wife and I now live in a racially mixed neighborhood, and I can truly say we have some wonderful neighbors, and have developed close friendships with several black families.

However, on Mother's Day, three African American female teenagers, who we weren't acquainted with, showed up at our door; one of whom was in a wheelchair. Again, my old habits re-emerged. I assumed they were up to no good. This is why we were in such shock when my wife was presented with a gift, which included a potted plant and assorted deserts. When she asked if the girls (who were sisters) were celebrating M.D. with their mother, they said they had lost their mother a number of years ago. This brought my wife to tears! I must confess, I was also profoundly affected. I discovered that these girls are from a poor family, and they had done this for the entire neighborhood.

It isn’t easy, but we are slowly erasing our old bad habits!