Remembering Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr and Childhood Race Issues

While I was not alive 40 years ago when the great Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the symbolism of his death still pains my heart. It was a moment in history that affected all of us and should never be forgotten. Dr. King's efforts toward peace between all races had a big impact on the way America is today. While there are still some things that need to be worked on, this country has made progress toward the equality the Reverend Dr. sought after. I think if he were here today, he'd be proud of how far we've come and continue to push us toward further progress.

As I witness a woman and a black man both running in the race for president, I can see another part of Dr King's plan coming together. We are all equal and Martin knew that from the start. Growing older, I see less instances of racial discrimination than I did as a child, but I still see and experience them. Again, America has certainly come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.

Thinking of Dr. King and his dream for all people to come together causes me to reflect on racial instances I have experienced in my own life. Following is a recollection and reflection of my first experience with issues involving race.

I first learned of racial differences as a child. I can still remember the exact moment. It was during recess of my 2^nd grade class on a warm and sunny day. My good friend Tyrone and I were getting balls out of the ball bin. Knowing me, I was probably getting a basketball, but that part is fuzzy to me. What I remember more clearly is the question he asked me. "What color are you?", he asked. I had never been asked that before, so I actually had to think about it before answering.

You see, my mother simply taught us to love everyone, not ever mentioning different skin tones, so I really had no concept of skin color. She later had to explain it after I got home from school and questioned it. I truly believe that in her eyes, as still exists in mine, there was no difference. I only wish everyone felt that way.