Hello All,
Today was jam packed and well worth it! We arrived, went to Blvd. church, and it was seriously the most welcoming church I've ever been to! I was overwhelmed by the hospitality and the way they worshiped. I have never worshiped so honestly ever in my life. It's amazing to have music radiate within you and the people around you. The message was honest, easy to relate to, and full of love and forgiveness. 2 1/2 hours later, after church ended, we were greeted with hugs and thanksgiving, it's an example of how a church and it's people should serve.
We then arrived at the National Civil Rights Museum, our tour guide was "Jolynn" and she was a passionate elder women, who said "she lived by her art."The museum was amazing and really gave a comprehensive view over the civil rights movement as a whole. As I was walking through a timeline of America's history, I reflected and felt so uneducated about our history. It is obvious that it was an "unremitting struggle" that still continues on today. It left me empowered to carry on the story and the message.
The highlight for me was MLK's bedroom at the Loraine hotel. His room is preserved exactly how he left it. It was like going back in time and i felt so humbled to get a glimpse into history. //side note: everyone MUST read MLK's last speech "I've seen the promised land"// AMAZING.
After the tour we met in our small groups, it was the most honest conversation I've ever had about race. I wish those conversations would happen more often in unplanned environments. About things that matter, stir emotions, and inspire us to be and do better. The most important thing i took away from today was that "silence makes a statement."
//think about it...//
peace
I really think the small group discussions are where a lot of application of the Civil Rights Tour can be applied. Being able to be honest with a close group of peers allows all of us to grow and really be able to understand one another. Nurture really tends to dominate over nature within the realm of Civil Rights. How we are raised greatly influences how we act/react and perceive the world around us. Remember in your discussions that one person's ideology should not always be considered "wrong" but different. We all don't come from the same background. Think about this, 20 yrs from now, children raised within same-sex households will definitely take offense when someone challenges the lifestyles of their parents whom have raised them and whom they love. Please continue to share your experiences so others may have a glimpse into what each of you is experiencing on this tour!
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