John Lewis wrote this essay (see link below) before his death. He has been justifiably lauded for being a titan in the civil rights movement. There is so much about his life I’ve learned in the past few weeks. Shame on me for not knowing some of this history before. His life, courage, wisdom, character, compassion, leadership, and humanity is inspiring. John Lewis made this world a better place. The work continues.
You must also study and learn the lessons of history because humanity has been involved in this soul-wrenching, existential struggle for a very long time. People on every continent have stood in your shoes, through decades and centuries before you. The truth does not change, and that is why the answers worked out long ago can help you find solutions to the challenges of our time. Continue to build union between movements stretching across the globe because we must put away our willingness to profit from the exploitation of others.
Though I may not be here with you, I urge you to answer the highest calling of your heart and stand up for what you truly believe. In my life I have done all I can to demonstrate that the way of peace, the way of love and nonviolence is the more excellent way. Now it is your turn to let freedom ring.
John Lewis