Remembering Dr. King

Today we observe the birthday of a man, who helped change the course of history for America. Some like to categorize him as the voice of African-Americans, but he was a man for all people who believed in “justice and liberty for all.” However, his heart had a special ache for those who resembled his brown complexion, as they shared battle stories in America - struggling for acceptance and the chance to progress in a nation that they called home, but referred to them as strangers.

Through his years of service as a minister, activist and civil rights leader, Dr. King made it his goal to educate people on the benefits of working together, loving each other and helping those in need. He knew the struggle that was ahead, but decided to press on. For if it was easy, it would not have been worth pursuing.

As we go through this day and come closer to February (Black History Month), remember the fight of those who came before and the path they have made. Continue to work with those who battle against you and encourage the ones who seem lost along the way. Bringing others to the top is more rewarding than going on your own.

The Shatter Zone

Sunday night I was watching TV when I heard a roll and crash come from the kitchen. Based upon the sound, I figured it was a piece of glassware that had fallen and broken. Upon entering the kitchen my assumption was confirmed, as broken glass was seen on the floor. I proceeded to sweep together the pieces from an area, I figured, covered the "shatter zone." About an hour later I again walked through the kitchen to the bathroom, and upon my return heard a cracking sound under my foot. Thankfully I had on some slippers, as I had just stepped on another piece of glass. This surprised me, as this piece of glass was way out of the "shatter zone," or so I thought. Then it hit me...

At times we do and/or say things to others, not always considering the full extent of our actions or words. We say, "it's not that serious or "what are you so upset about," forgetting that our feelings can not be used to measure the feelings of others. We all feel and act differently to situations. A West Indian adage says, "what is joke to you, is death to me." It is important that we remember this as we go through each day and during our interactions with friends and strangers alike.

Just like the broken glass, remember, not everything falls within the "shatter zone."