Given our habit around this time of year to jump to the joyous, romantic holiday of Valentine's Day, I feel it is only just to bring back something I feel has been lost with time. For February it is "Black History Month," which is a time that I enjoy every year.

IMPORTANCE OF "BLACK HISTORY MONTH"

I studied African American culture for a year and a half through my first two years of college and was overjoyed with the knowledge I gained. Throughout my studies of the history of the African American culture, I found I greatly looked up to Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, one of my heroes and "men I would have dinner with if I could," is an inspiration in my life. He saw past people’s prideful hatred when no one else did. He could follow God's plan amid outrageous adversity. These are a few of the reasons why I look up to him. I feel it is important to not forget what he and many others fought for: unity, freedom and hope.

This month has a focus on black history, and that is very important for our country. Even before our nation was born, America was home to many people of African descent. In school we learned of the heart-wrenching horror of slave trafficking and the radical racism that has plagued our country’s soul. The resulting wound is significant, and slow to heal.

In the same way, I feel this is like my Christian walk. We are called by Christ not to dwell on the past, but to know our mistakes in order to improve our future and move forward into his plan — he always has a plan.

"PRESS ON, DREAM BIG" 

Personally, if I dwell on what has happened to me in the past, it keeps me from moving forward. It’s like trying to drive forward on the highway while only looking in your rearview mirror. This puts you at a high risk of hurting yourself and others. This was put into action by Martin Luther King, Jr. as he pressed forward during the Civil Rights Movement as he moved towards his dream of equality.

As Christians, we are called to fight in a spiritual war that takes place on a physical battlefield. We need to know why we should stand up for something, and then stand steadfastly.

This is an encouragement to not give up the fight, to follow what God has planned for you, to not let go of the dream that he has given you. The past is important, but that is not where we live. Press on, dream big, follow God in his plan.

I feel it is important to remember the celebration we learned when we were in elementary school. Remember to fight for freedom and to never lose hope in what tomorrow might bring.

Happy February. I encourage you to seek to learn more this Black History Month.