Martin Luther King, Jr. was born on January 15, 1929. In 1954, he received his PhD and accepted a position as a pastor of a Baptist church in Alabama.  Following the beliefs of his parents to break down the barriers between the races, Dr. King dedicated his life to the Civil Rights Movement.

Dr. King is best known for his “I Have A Dream” speech he gave to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. The following year at the age of 35, he was the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

During his lifetime, Dr. King accomplished a great deal and overcame great obstacles because of his dreams. His dreams were the inspiration behind his work,  his success and the respect he gained from millions of people.  He left a legacy that continues on, and is recognized every year on the 3rd Monday in January to celebrate his birthday.

In honor of Dr. King’s birthday, I want you to answer these questions:

• Do you have a dream that came to you from inspiration?
• Do you have a dream that could benefit mankind?
• Do you have a dream that could help the indigent?
• Do you have a dream of serving your community?
• Do you have a dream that you want to put into a goal?
• Do you have a goal you want to put into action?

I invite you to share that dream in the comments below. Share your thoughts about your dreams and how you are going to turn your dream into a reality.  What do you need to accomplish your dream? What obstacles are standing in your way?  You may also share how Martin Luther King, Jr. has inspired you to have a dream.

Join me in celebrating Martin Luther King Day on Monday, January 18, 2010, and make a plan to turn your dreams into reality.

Warm regards,

Kay L. Fontana
“The Grandcoach”

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenges and controversy.

~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Human Rights Day was created by the United Nations to promote awareness of the importance of Human Rights issues around the world. On this date in 1948, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Each year, the United Nations, establishes a new theme for the year. The theme for 2009 is “Non-discrimination.”

The sad truth about human rights is that the opportunities of many around the world are hindered by discrimination.  Many people face many challenges and obstacles to achieving goals due to this problem.

What does the term “Human Rights” mean to you? Does it mean working in the job of your choosing? Does it mean speaking freely about issues that are important to you? Does it mean getting an education?  Does it mean ending discrimination so that you have an equal chance of achieving your goals?

If these resonate with you, then you are on the right track.  These are just a few of the 30 basic rights that formed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.  Your basic Human Rights do have an impact on the goals you achieve in life.

You can make a difference by celebrating Human Rights Day and raising awareness in your community to end discrimination.  For more information about Human Rights Day 2009, please go to:  http://www.un.org/en/events/humanrightsday/2009/