The third Monday in January is designated as Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday to honor this civil rights leader and to encourage Americans to reflect on racial equality and democratic principles.  The theme for this year’s observance:  Remember! Celebrate! Act! A Day On, Not A Day Off!
           
Dr. King passed away 40 years ago.  When one thinks of his short life, what he taught us about transforming the moral fibers within our society to ensure equal opportunities for everyone had a profound and lasting impact.  His call to action led us to confront a world bigger and broader than we could ever imagine.  He had a way of doing that – of pushing us outside our own comfort zone, of making it clear that we have to be part of the revolution that was going on.  Remember it wasn’t a revolution of weapons, but a revolution of hearts and minds, of attitudes and actions.

There are several ways for you to take action and follow Dr. King’s spirit, his call to action.  For example:
             - Sponsor and organize a project or variety of projects.
             - Form teams to volunteer.
             - Encourage friends, colleagues, and families to seek out service projects in their areas.
             - Find out about different organizations in our areas that provide community services, and volunteer. 

By doing so, you help strengthen local communities, bridge social and cultural differences, and demonstrate compassion and commitment to honor Dr. King’s memory. 

Dr. King taught us everything we needed to know about his legacy and how to carry it forward, but in the end it is up to each of us to walk that path.  It is not an easy path.  It was difficult for him.  It is difficult for us.  Sometimes we need to take steps backwards so we can figure out a new way forward.  I have confidence that we can make the right choices.  I truly believe in my heart it’s up to us to try to do a better job every day reaching out to those in need.  And when we get tired and when our resolve starts to waiver, we can rely on Dr. King’s spirit and his words which ring as true today as they did 40 years ago.

On his birthday, January 15, 2009, many events will be presented throughout our military communities in honor of Dr. King.  The DoDDS-Pacific Director’s Office will sponsor a program on Torii Station at the Coral Cove from 1400-1500 to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy.  I encourage everyone to support these events and activities.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam