Monday Musings ... Black History

During the month of February, many African American Churches celebrate Black History Month.   Congregations often sing, "Lift Every Voice and Sing",  pay tribute to historical figures, and have  school age children participate in special programs.  These celebrations remind us of  the collective milestones that African Americans have achieved in the spite  of the obstacles that were endured.

Yesterday, our church celebrated  Black History. Our children dressed in costumes, recited poems, and gave short speeches. We listened as the students shared in speeches the accomplishments of scientists, attorneys, doctors, singers, actors, scientists, chemists, athletes, astronauts, and so many more...

As much as we think we know, it is wise to remain humble and prepare to discover more. Yesterday, after the school presentation, we enjoyed  presentation regarding William Wells Brown.

Adults and children sat enthralled by the performance of  Virgil Covington, Jr. as he portrayed  William Wells Brown: How I God my Name. Who is Willam Wells Brown? He was a Kentucky native celebrated as the first  published African American novelist and playwright. Black History American is not just for African Americans -- it is for all Americans.

Who inspired  Black History Month begin? Carter G. Woodson  What do you think of these words of Carter G. Woodson?

"If you can control a mans thinking you don't have to worry about his actions. If you can determine what a man thinks you don't have to worry about what he will do. If you can make a man believe that he is inferior you don't have to compel him to seek and inferior status, he will do that without being told and if you can make a man believe that he is justly an outcast, you don't have to order him to the back door, he will go to the back door on his own and if there is no back door, the very nature of the man will demand that you build one."

Celebrating history reminds of the our courageous past and inspires us.