A Day On
Of all of our national holidays, beyond the big two, Martin Luther King, Jr. day holds special significance for me. It’s a big deal!
Yes, Dr. King is a modern day hero. His principles help me to understand and seek justice. His marching caused me to want to go somewhere – and take others with me. His oratory moved me to have something to say. And his dream inspired me to dream… and execute.
Beyond that, I also attended his alma mater – Morehouse College, met my future bride on the first observance of the holiday in 1986 and, while serving as a White House Fellow, worked at the Corporation for National and Community Service, which encourages us to make the holiday “A Day On, Not A Day Off.”
When I first heard that slogan, I remember thinking “what a great concept!” “Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve,” Dr. King is quoted as saying. Simple, yet profound, words that actually sum up to essence of his public contribution to our country. Selfless in seeking justice and peace, and eventually making the ultimate sacrifice – these characteristics define the brand of Kings service towards making our country better.
And so now we pause nationally each year to focus on service for at least a single “Day On.” All around the country on this holiday people in their neighborhoods and churches – led by non-profits, corporations and individuals – Americans get up and get out to go do something to help somebody else.
Good news for all of us, of course, is that many Americans don’t just wait for the holiday. The motto of my church is “Living to Love and Loving to Serve,” and with more than 40 active outreach ministries, the folks at Zion Hill Baptist Church really mean it!
Additionally, I am honored to serve on the board of directors for Hands on Atlanta, a leader in service with more than 400 service projects and more than 37,000 volunteers participating in projects around Atlanta. I am also
privileged to be a part of the Nashville, TN community where , following the 100-year flood that occurred in May, 2010, Hands on Nashville, the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, small businesses, citizens and neighbors swarmed to help one another get the assistance that they needed and recover quickly. So much so that by the time that Anderson Cooper (CNN) arrived on the scene he was concerned that the story wasn’t as dramatic as he’d hoped. [And insert the name of your favorite service organization here.]
The spirit of service in America is alive and well. A central tenant to our faith traditions, to the founding of our country and to Dr. King’s legacy, this holiday and these organizations are a reminder to all of us of what it takes to be great.
Dr. King dares us to dream… and compels us to execute… in the name of service to our fellow man. Service is what will make you great. Make the King Holiday, and every day, A Day On.
