Tie Tuesday (Dr. Joseph Lowery)

I've been thinking about Dr. Joseph Lowery lately...  He's an icon who is best known for his leadership in the civil rights movement.  His tireless work has stretched over 60 years.  In fact, after Rosa Parks' arrest in 1955, Dr. Lowery was instrumental in leading the Montgomery bus boycott.  And at the request of Dr. Martin Luther King, he led the Selma to Montgomery march of 1965.  He later founded the Christian Leadership Conference with Dr.King, and led the organization from 1997 to 1987.  In 2009, Dr. Lowery was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama.

He celebrated his 92nd birthday this past Sunday in Atlanta at Morehouse College. Celebrities, politicians and community leaders came out to honor his life and contributions. One person was missing though.  His wife of nearly 60 years, Evelyn.  She passed away a week ago. 

My heart goes out to him for his loss...60 years is a long time to love someone.  But I know he's a man of faith.  And I know he'll keep pushing forward.  One of the many reasons I love and admire him...

Happy Birthday Martin Luther King, Jr.! (10 Things That Might Surprise You About Him)

Martin Luther King, Jr...We celebrate his birthday on the third Monday every January, although technically he was born on January 15th.  He's a hero to so many people.  A great man.  An  inspiration to me. 

I wish I could have met him...not sure what I would have said besides "thank you."  I probably would have just listened mostly.  Anyway....today is his birthday.  As we reflect and remember him, here are some interesting facts that might surprise you: 

OK..one more.  His “traveling bible” will be used to swear in President Obama at his second inauguration.

Martin Luther King's traveling bible.