A Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the United States, today is a federal holiday as we celebrate the life and legacy of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. He was very instrumental in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s as his message of non-violence was a major force for change in a segregated society. Today, over 40 years after his passing, he’s still speaking to us through his life transforming message.

His was a global vision as he dreamed of the day when people would no longer be judged by the color of their skin but rather by the content of their character. He had great insight as he realized that, in fact, all men are created equal. He was a champion for human rights and is celebrated all over the world for his work. Because of his dedicated service to his fellow men, his work continues to transform lives today.

The vision of The Upbeat Dad is also global. We believe that the issues we try to address and the problems that we seek to solve cross cultural, ethnic and religious boundaries. Every single person on the earth has the genetic make up of a mother and a father. But in far too many cases, fathers are either absent or uninvolved in the raising of children. The repercussions of this fact are very significant. So we seek, in our own way, to make a lasting impact on the lives of men, women and children all over the world through our work.

At the Upbeat Dad, we honor Dr. King’s legacy. One of his most famous quotes is, “Let freedom ring.” The United States was founded on the principles of freedom. And today, over 200 years later, freedom is still one of the basic tenets that guide our nation. Dr. King recognized that when people are free, they can pursue their dreams and in their own way, they can contribute to the welfare of the entire human race.

My poem Freedom is the Cry of Every Man speaks of this truth. Enjoy reading it as we celebrate just what it means to be free.

Freedom Is the Cry of Every Man

By Rodrick Walters

Freedom is the cry of every man—

a foundation on which to stand.

Freedom to think, to imagine, to be;

freedom brings dreams to reality.

How can the bird fly unless it’s free?

Or dreams take flight without eyes to see?

The eyes of the wise are the ones we should cherish,

for when there's no vision, we surely will perish.

A free mind can make a pauper a king

when it discovers the potential deep within.

It marches to the sound of its own unique beat,

and helps make the life of a dreamer complete.

All men should have the liberty

to live their dreams – whatever they may be.

For every man deserves the right

to soar like an eagle to higher heights.

Please join us today as we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King. His great contribution to humanity has certainly made ours a much better world, where freedom and liberty are cherished.

 Enjoy your day.

 The Upbeat Dad