Good Trouble 

I hope you were fortunate to virtually experience the celebration of life for the late Congressman John Robert Lewis.  The man was a force of nature, a national treasure and leaves an inspiring legacy.  The tributes and memories to a humble servant of our country were moving.  The speakers included President Obama, Bush and Clinton and all sang from the same hymnal. Obama said it well, “he believed that in all of us, there exists the capacity for great courage, a longing to do what’s right, a willingness to love all people, and to extend to them their God given rights to dignity and respect. …”and it’s because he saw the best in all of us that he will continue, even in passing, to serve as a beacon in that long journey toward a more perfect union.” President Bush, said “John Lewis will live forever in the hearts of Americans.” Regardless of party politics, the pandemic and the economic challenges, the loss of a focused leader, like John Lewis creates a void in our country.  After hearing and reading the Lewis story, it reinforced the need for all of us to carry on with his good work.

John Lewis wrote an op ed for The NY Times to be published on the day of his funeral. “Today, you can Redeem the Soul of our Nation,” he wrote “though I am gone, I urge you to answer the highest calling of your heart and stand up for what you truly believe.”

The work that started many years ago on the infamous Edmund Pettus bridge will continue on and Lewis hoped and predicted that we could “lay down the heavy burdens of hate at last and that peace finally triumphed over violence, aggression and war.”  He concluded his remarks, “so I say to you, walk with the wind, brothers and sisters, and let the spirit of peace and power of everlasting love be your guide.”

Lewis loved music and the gospel groups elevated the celebration.  A rendition of “We will Overcome” plus an original song entitled “Good Trouble” framed the man, his humility, perseverance, and commitment.  Lewis’s favorite song was “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, check out the video of him dancing at 78.  One of his final statements—everyone must vote.

Enjoy our freedoms, we must hold an election in November. Please let your representative know how you feel and get them to protect an support our Postal Service.    Mike