bits of my weekend: MLK event

This was a holiday weekend, celebrating the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.  While volunteering for a project I will tell you about later in the week, I was asked to speak at the annual community celebration honoring Martin Luther King Jr.

My speaking instructions were simple - how has MLK impacted my life?

The answer to that question  is easy - his words. Reading his speeches is stimulating. Listening to them is moving. He was not a perfect man, but I would describe his life as well lived. He sacrificed for a cause much bigger than himself and his legacy spans geography and generations.

The basis of my talk was MLK's optimism in the face of trials...his dream of people being judged on the content of their character rather than the color of their skin...and that there are still worthy causes in need of individuals with courage to stand.

It was a beautiful event with liturgical dancing, the sharing of stories and a gospel choir that rocked the house.

Just Sheri, humbled and indebted

Quotable Quotes: measure of a man (or woman)

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on his birthday....his own words.

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

 ~Martin Luther King Jr, Strength to Love, 1963 


Just Sheri, motivated by the message

I want, I want, I want...a knit infinity scarf

Have you seen these? Do you own one? I haven't seen anyone wear a knit infinity scarf in real life, but all the pictures are very intriguing to me.

Doesn't that just look cozy and warm? I haven't bought one yet as I can't decide on a color. I want purple and turquoise and grey and pink. I want long and short. I want large loops and tightly weaved. I want an infinity scarf...at least one.

What I am wondering is - do I not see them around on real people because they don't turn out to be a good purchase? Real people don't end up liking the scarf or knowing what to do with it after they have it. Hmmm, I wonder...

I haven't seen winter in a few years...like real winter with snow and freezing wind. Warm clothing is my new obsession.

Just Sheri, looking for ways to keep warm

on TV: undercover boss

I recently discovered a reality show (other than the Amazing Race) that I really like. What is it? Undercover Boss.

Frankly, it is brilliant marketing for these companies, but it is also fun to watch the top dog struggle doing the jobs that pay their salary. I enjoy hearing the stories of those who work in these companies - often stories of struggle and overcoming difficulty.

Once upon a time I worked in an office where we would be required to do a rotation at the front desk, regardless of role or responsibility. I had a director title, but I did my time like everyone else. I was horrible at it. I couldn't multi-task with ease. I didn't know the answer to many basic questions. I grew to appreciate the value that the front desk person added to our organization. The woman who did the job each day was brilliant at it. It is my belief that every leader should be reminded of the effort others put in to the organization...and that those low paid, entry-level jobs aren't easy - they take skill too.

What TV show are you watching and enjoying these days?

Just Sheri, rediscovering pop culture

Everyday Heroes: a committed teacher

A few nights ago the home health care nurse came by to do a physical assessment on my friend. The three of us got to talking about matters of racial identity and prejudices. It was the first time the home health care nurse shared about his background.

He immigrated to this country at the age of 14 years old. At that time he had the equivalent of a second grade education as he had been working in a carpentry shop in his homeland rather than attending school. When he came to America he was able to go to school like the other children...and he was thrilled. Because of his age he was placed in the 9th grade. As part of his first assignment he had to present his work in front of the class. He was laughed at by everyone in the room - except the teacher. There are a number of details in the story I will leave out because of space. The end result is that this teacher invested heavily in his life. He caught up academically. He went to nursing school and eventually even completed medical school.

It has been decades since this man was in high school, but he still recalls his teachers name - Ms. Lewis. He still recalls her kindness.

This man provides a valuable service and is a blessing to us each week during his visits. He obviously cares about his patients and is incredibly knowledgeable about his field. He is making a difference in the lives of sick people all over this community.

He wouldn't be doing what he is doing if someone hadn't invested in him. In his case, it was a committed and compassionate teacher who made all the difference.

Just Sheri, witness to the dividends of Ms. Lewis investment

NOTE: the Everyday Heroes series on this blog is an idea to share stories of normal people engaging in acts of kindness. I want to draw attention to kindness because I believe it is what changes the world.