I think the world has finally got a glimpse of modern day, American royalty. I also think for six hours at least, the world will be better for it. We can now fittingly, literarily and figuratively put to rest who the real backbone of God’s community is. It is hard to get four presidents to agree on lunch, never mind attending a Negro funeral, in a Baptist church in a southern region, during Black History Month. Only the backbone of the world community could bring that many differences under one roof in honor of one seemingly endless goal of World Peace. I am not sure I’ll ever see anything like that in my life again.
THE SPOKEN
The speakers (nearly 3 dozen) were plentiful, and for me, the most memorable were Ms. Shabaaz (Malcolm’s daughter), Charles Rachael (formerly of the Crips) and Joseph Lowery, who predictably and poetically reminded us of the really big picture. Bernice did what most children dread, eulogizing a parent. She was good. Kudos too to Bishop Eddie Long. He was exceptional, which simply means my low-expectations were far exceeded. Bush Jr. spoke well, which is something you won’t read every day, while his daddy’s new-found humility is living proof of Mrs. King’s greatness. Not enough for Harry Belafonte's comfort, and subsequent absence, which speaks volumes.
THE UNSPOKEN
For those of you that don’t know Dekalb County, Georgia has a black CEO. The (stone’s throw) neighboring Lithonia community has a black mayor. The majority of the South Dekalb residents are black. And, according to Bill Clintion’s speech and (the more credible) the U.S. Census, Dekalb County is the second richest black county in the nation (Prince George’s D.C. County is first). Despite those futile figures, I’ve always kept this historically, racial divisive, racially segregated Klan headquartered town in which I reside in the forefront of my mind. Well, for the first time since I lived here, I see the leafless winter tree branches as a sign of season’s change and not just the equipment used to hang black men.
Thanks Coretta, I'll miss you.
1 Love,
Ray Lewis
1 comment:
She was a Proverbs 31 woman………
Proverbs 31 describes the portrait of a godly woman, a strong dignified, multitalented, virtuous, and caring woman who is an individual in her own right. She is her husband’s partner, she is completely trusted. She has business skills, as well as, the heartfelt sensitivity and compassion to care for and fulfill the needs of people who are less fortunate. Cheerfully and energetically she tackles the day to day challenges.
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