It is important as we begin to look forward to remember the rich and tremendous history we as African American people have been blessed to possess. As we begin to reflect on our history, it becomes increasingly important for us to honor those who have paved the way and made invaluable contributions in our lives. Included in this reflection are the ordinary, hard-working, dedicated men in our lives who were given the monumental task of raising families and creating better futures for their sons and daughters. It is important for us to remember that there is a legacy left behind each of us and along with this legacy comes the gift of love, determination, commitment, and extraordinary sacrifice. As a people, we ought to see it and become what it represents. Remembering the legacy and honoring the legacy is what will not only help us gain a better understanding of who we are, but it will illuminate the direction in which we should be headed. Far too many of us have lost sight of what is important in this world. We have lost our focus. It is time for us to regain our focus and begin to close the gap by taking back our rich heritage and begin to run “the race” that has been set before us.
As I reflect on my own legacy, I remember my father, Aaron Roberson, Sr., who traveled to Springfield in the early 1960’s from Monroe, Louisiana. He was in search of a better way of life for his wife and children during a very difficult time in our nation’s history. I think of how he must have envisioned a future of promise for all of his children, despite the challenges he faced. It moves me to think of how much strength it took as a man for him to leave his place of comfort and go, not knowing what the future would hold. He was courageous and ventured out realizing he was indeed on a mission. He was mission-minded and that is what I remember today. I think about how he would work two jobs while we were growing up and how he would get up early in the morning and work late at night just so we could have what we needed. I think of how he was a true leader, and how he led his family by example — not just “talking the talk” but “walking the walk” daily.
He showed me, along with my three brothers and two sisters, how to live, and that family was most important. He taught us how to love and to be loved. He shaped us into the individuals we are today, and showed us how to become productive members of society. Therefore, as we look in the mirror, who do we see?
We should see the characteristics that Jesus wants all of us to exemplify. We should see more of Him and less of us. As we look deeper, we should see ourselves building our own legacy like the men in our lives have done for future generations to come. ■