Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Civil Rights Activist - World Hero

January 15. 2008

Today, on Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday, I'd like to take the time to remember his profound contribution to not just America, but the world. He is held in high esteem all over the globe. King was a man, who in his time, didn't receive the recognition and respect he deserved, but was and is appreciated for taking a stand against inequality and inequity in society. He inspired and encouraged many.

Last year, I saw a report on cable news television that stated he is the only American that is a world hero. Internationally, he is numbered among great people such as Mother Teresa. It's one thing to achieve greatness in one's own country, but quite an accomplishment to be lauded worldwide. At age 35 he became the youngest recipient of a Nobel Peace Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in the world. He was a man that set many precedents.

He was feared by some, hated by others and loved by many. He became a target of those with such evil in their hearts and anger in their eyes, they couldn't see the good he was trying to do and did ultimately do during his life and in his death.

History does not remember them kindly. But we remember him fondly. I love the message he preached - not I'm better than you or you're better than me, but that blacks and whites are equals. We're all equals. I believe it to be so.

So, in the spirit of brotherhood and love, I honor him on this day as a man God used to bring positive change to a troubled world. The world was made a better place for having had him here. Rest in peace, sir, you will never be forgotten.