As we approach the long weekend, let us not forget the purpose it serves

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jessica Tabor
  • 673d Air Base Wing Equal Opportunity Office
JOINT BASE ELMEMDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday has been recognized the third Monday of every January since 1986. The federal holiday progressed to what is today a national day of service. The theme is always the same: “Make it a day on, not a day off.”

As we recognize this day, let us ask ourselves how we can do our part in bettering our community and the lives of those around us.

King famously noted that “Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?’”

He lived his life trying to improve the world around him. By participating in this philosophy, especially in January, we can serve others throughout the entire year.

“Dr. King preached about justice, empowerment, love and peace, in the final months of his life, his attention was turned to fighting poverty,” according to nationalservice.gov. “Sadly, more Americans live in poverty today than during Dr. King's lifetime. Forty-seven million Americans currently fall below the poverty line.”

King found ways through his words and nonviolent actions to make our country and the world a better place.

However how you decide to spend your time, find a way to make a difference in someone’s life. These actions can be as small as spending time with your friends or family, helping the homeless, or tutoring a child. Don’t forget to ask yourself what you are doing for others. The pay-it-forward movement capitalizes on making a difference in a way that allows someone else to continue the movement, even in anonymity.

If someone thanks you, ask them to pass it on when they can. Helping others encompasses the whole-person concept, and making a difference for one person – no matter how small – can influence them for a lifetime.

If you are looking for a way to volunteer within your community visit, www.serve.gov.