John Lewis - Courage and Compassion

1965 on the 'Edmund Pettus bridge' was a defining moment in my life. I was only 10 years old but I made a life-long decision that day; my life was meaningless if I didn't live it fighting injustice. I am 65 years old, and although I am no John Lewis, I have taken his call to 'good trouble' seriously. 55 years ago I knew my faith would not stand along side apathy and injustice. As I watched John Lewis cross the river today, I took a photo off the TV as his body rested half way across the bridge. I said to myself, 'John Lewis, you led us half way there, thank you!' Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. set us on the path, and now in the year 2020 it is time for us as a people to struggle on and finish the dream set before us. I probably will not live to see the finish line but maybe, like John Lewis, I can taste the victory and know that equality can be realized in this country. The BLM is taking up the banner and marching forward. Wonderful things are happening, but we have such a long way to go to defeat racism and bigotry. One of my heroes crossed the bridge today to be met with a victor’s reward. Unlike 1965 when he was beaten and almost lost his life. Miraculously, he lived and served and now is greeted with the words from his Lord, 'Well done my good and faithful servant'. When I read John Lewis' book I was in awe of his gentle and courageous spirit. Always loving, always forgiving. I know that I am quick to retaliate and to hold grudges. As I travel my last days here on this Earth, I will aspire to not only take up the banner of justice but to call upon John to help me with the humble part. A great man who followed a greater God has walked among us. Let us follow him and honor him by creating a world of justice, courage and compassion.

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