Remembering a Champion of Civil-Rights: John Lewis

I rolled over, grabbed my phone and sat up in bed. Reaching for my phone to check emails and read about overnight happenings in the world is one of my first acts each day. The headlines said that Representative John Lewis had died. I fell back on my pillow. 

 I remember the first time I met him. He was gracious and kind. I shared what he meant to me, I talked of my son, Connor, and my hopes and dreams for him, as I simultaneously pushed my son forward so that he could have a moment beside greatness. We left that encounter with autographed books from Mr. Lewis, huge smiles on our faces, a sense of pride, and a commitment to double down as a family and focus on doing right in the world. 

 As with many, I was dismayed by the lack of respect this American icon and fearless champion of racial justice received from leaders of our nation. My reaction: why can't we disagree with decorum and respect? Why can't we uphold the dignity of our roles even if we are committed to pushing our agendas forward? The world deserves this approach. 

 Mr. Lewis, a principled man who gave his voice, his body, his mind and his soul to righteous causes, deserved nothing less.  

 My son, who is now 20 years old, is coming to visit me today. In honor of Mr. Lewis, we will re-read his book, say a prayer for our nation and world, and continue our fight for universal human prosperity. 

 We are all citizens of this world. May we move #ForwardTogether.