The three words that I think about when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. crosses my mind are: bravery, peace, and black history. There are times that I try to imagine myself with the brave heart to speak in front of hundreds of thousands of people. The patience to allow police to smack me across the head with a nightstick and then turn the other check. Or the ability to remain positive, while keeping a clear vision of my dreams while my eyes are filled with injustice.

Another incredible talent of Dr. King, Jr. is the ability to remain humble in the midst of prejudice and chaos. Reminds of the story of when Jesus laid there in the back of a boat during a violent storm, peacefully, while everyone else in the boat were, understandably, nervous. When you have a purpose in life that must be fulfilled there is no opposition that can stand in your way. Dr. King, Jr. knew this and tapped into that inner power of God within him to overcome the racism, hatred, and negativity before him. The purpose was to be the leader of the African-American Civil Rights Act of 1964, which opened the doors to other victories such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Dr. King, Jr. may not be the godfather of Black History but he is definitely one of the best examples of resilience in my book. The “Bravery Of Our African Ancestors” ’til this day continues to motivate us towards greatness. It is my honor to tell you that I’ll be the keynote speaker at this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. luncheon hosted by African Students Union at Broward College. Its been a long time since I’ve been back to the college but I shall cherish the opportunity. I truly appreciate their words of encouragement, financial support, and the privilege of addressing the students on campus to give homage to Dr. King, Jr.’s contribution towards his growing legacy with Black History Royalty.

Click here to watch: “The Bravery of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” Speech by King Kevin Dorival