This week is an important beginning of idealistic views of who we are as a people.
Wednesday is the celebration of the same date in 1865 when the last slaves were freed in Galveston, Texas. The potential idealism that fueled some during that moment as they headed into a new territory of freedom is overwhelming to imagine. Their dreams of freedom went from feeling like a fantasy to a possibility.
And in just over two weeks, we will be celebrating the freedom and independence of our country from another power of dominance and oppression. Back then, there were sets of ideals and principles of a free nation that the founding Americans were willing to die for.
But there are similarities in both instances. The days we mark as June 19th and July 4th are worth celebrating, but upon reflection, they also generate a reflection of all the action that was required then and is required now.
At a team meeting this morning, there was an interesting ice breaker. Would you rather meet your great, great grandparents or your great, great grandchildren. Put into the context of these next two dates of celebration, I am not sure what would be more enlightening; bringing my great, great grandparents to now or my great, great grandchildren. What would they think of where we are, and the progress we have (and haven't made)?
While there will be reminders of the divisiveness over the next two weeks, I plan to reflect with my family and three kids on all that has been accomplished. I plan to re-teach the ideals of what can be for all of us when we care about our fellow citizens and believe in the better world ahead of us.
Happy Juneteenth Week, everyone.
