Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today our nation celebrates the life and accomplishments of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. What are you doing to remember him? What are we doing this day to recall his enormous contributions to our nation? Anything?

I used to attend an annual breakfast event in which choirs sang, kids of all ages spoke about Dr. King’s legacy. And then a seasoned speaker would share a meaningful message for us to incorporate in our lives and enhance the legacy of equality, justice and civil rights for all in America. That and tending to the beacon of hope for all of those peoples who yearn for the same in their nations wherever they are.

It has been a few years since I attended one of those public breakfasts. I remember them all fondly. Wondering at the time what I was doing to support all the good things Dr. King worked hard to produce for America. I’ve done some things; failed at others. I just hope I have not failed at keeping the beat alive for social justice and equality.

I think I’m OK in this department. Like most folks, I could have done better. No excuses, though; the need remains, and we are called to do the work.

Whether equality is based on race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, able or unable, there are millions of people facing discrimination and injustice every day. In our land. Of freedom. Scan social media to check this out. Oh, the need is there, alright. And we all know it.

So, roll up your sleeves and get busy. There is no end to the need or opportunity to make a difference in one life or thousands. It takes all of us to do this work. Together we will change minds. And lives. It takes a village to raise a kid. It takes more villages to support a family and a neighborhood. Imagine the villages it takes to make a nation whole and fair?

We are the nation of yes, of can do. Let’s get to work and give proof to our heritage and legacy. In the name of Martin Luther King, Jr. Yes sir!

January 21, 2019