On My Mind

This morning I accompanied clients to the Martin Luther King Day celebration. It was held at a performing arts center here in town. Everyone crowded into the lobby of the center. They sat on the stairs, stood in the center; children lined the balcony. As we entered we were warmly greeted. A choir was singing adding to a spirit of celebration in the room.

There were many speakers and guests at this celebration. A young lady sang the national anthem. She had an amazing voice. I watched the crowd as she sang. Many held their hands over their hearts as they listened. Many did not. I noticed that some of the young clients stood there and watched as if watching a normal performance. The subject of patriotism and respect for one's country is a sensitive one for me. It makes me sad to think that the new generation is not being taught respect and pride for one's nation. They were not disrespectful but they did not stand proud.

Dave was my favorite speaker. He is a Native American from the Spokane tribe. He stated that since both his parents are full-blood Native American, "Dave" must be an "Indian" name. Bet you didn't know that. :-) He told a story of his grandmother who taught him to know who you are and be proud of it. He spoke of the natural, positive energy running through each one of us. He demonstrated with an activity where we could feel the energy in our hands. He then asked the audience to hold hands while he sang a traditional Native American song. Afterwards, he asked us to lightly squeeze the hand we were holding. "See," he said, "our energies are all connected." How much good can we all do if we put our energy together for something positive?

A reverend was invited to give the Martin Luther King speech. He did a wonderful job. I got goosebumps. No wonder MLK was able to move so many people if he spoke like that.

After the celebration, we all marched down the streets of the city for several blocks. Many were carrying banners and signs. Everyone appeared happy. It is amazing how much power there is in a group of people marching in the streets for a cause that's important to them. I have never felt the need to protest or demonstrate for anything yet. But as I marched down the street with strangers in this town, I was glad to be a part of it. I was proud of how far our country has come. I was proud of Martin Luther King and those of that generation who fought for their rights and dignity.

Will the new generations know the sacrifices that have been made for them to have the way of life that they have? Will they know how to make those sacrifices to improve generations to come? Will the new generation care enough to get involved and to educate themselves for the good of this country and it's people? I hope so, for they hold a lot of potential for good.