King's message

Today America observes the federal holiday that honors the life of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Typically a day filled with services of remembrance and reverence for King's life, the national holiday should also be a time for reflection.

King spoke out in support of equality, justice, peace, righteousness, truth and dignity for all people. He motivated people across the country to change their nation. He believed that humanity could change and people would be better off because of those changes.

King's legacy reminds us to recognize people for their abilities and not their ethnicity. King dreamed of America as a place where all people were equal and respected for their ideas. We still haven't entirely realized that dream.

As we attend local events today commemorating King's life, it is important to remember that fostering good relationships isn't something limited to a single holiday. It should be our constant goal throughout the year.