How will you promote MLK’s message?

Martin Luther King Jr. day is observed every third Monday of January here in the United States to mark the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.‘s birthday, January 15th. It is one of only four U.S. holidays that commemorates an individual. Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law in 1983 (although it was not first observed until 1986). In 1994, Bill Clinton signed into law legislation to turn the holiday into a day of service to further honor and put into action the words of Reverend King. It is a day to remember his message, his life of service, and the sacrifices he made to promote the cause of equality, justice and peace.

I’ll be honest, as a kid I think I thought less about King’s birthday and more about the day off from school. After begrudgingly heading back to the classroom after winter break, that day off in January was a breath of fresh air. Some of us perhaps feel this way even today, since about one-third of the nation’s employers give their employees the day off from work. I encourage you to take a moment today to remember the incredible man whom this day honors. Go here to read and listen to some of his most famous speeches.

The events of this past week in Haiti have shown us that the world is still one where together we can help our neighbors in times of tragedy. On the news I have seen Americans working next to Turkish rescue teams, Dutch and Chilean, all to lend a hand to those in need. Although we may not all be able to fly to Haiti to help, we can help by donating what we can and by keeping the people in our thoughts and prayers. You can also help those in need who live here in this country, through the numerous organizations in our local area and beyond. Of course at BCP we know firsthand how our blood donors are saving lives daily. There are endless opportunities to answer King’s question: “What are you doing for others?”

Today is a day of service. Tomorrow can be too.

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