"There is greatness in you - not just in the people you look up to - it's in you."
These were the words Pastor Paul shared during Sunday morning service during a reflection in black history. And it's true but the beauty of it far exceed the borders of race.
Greatness you see is non-discriminatory. It happens to us all. The Problem often lie in us not realizing our own unique value and our contribution to all humanity.
But like Martin Luther King Jr., Madam C.J. Walker, Rosa Parks and those alike how are we measuring up to the sacrifices they made?
They passed honorable torches while being keenly aware that their dreams would likely not be seen in their lifetime. As respectful as many of our intentions are, do you really think we are truly honoring them by simply remembering their courageous actions and heroic stances? Or would they rather see us strengthening the nation in love, faith and truth? Progressing with all men while building upon the foundation they already laid.
Cognitive that the very paths we cultivate today becomes history for future generations.
For instance, living healthy. A serious and increasingly alarming physical threat today is diabetes. Do you know anyone who has diabetes? Do you know what it is? What are the symptoms, causes and treatment of the disease? How can it be prevented? Diabetes affects two main organs in the body; the pancreas and the liver. Our liver produces sugar (glucose) and our pancreas produces insulin. The disorder affects the way your body uses food for energy. There are two types: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is full blown diabetes but type two can be managed by changing your eating habits, losing weight, and exercising. The fallacy of not adjusting your lifestyle causes additional uninvited guests to join the party. Eventually, problems occur with your eyes, feet, kidneys, teeth, etc.
My brother, Dr. Willie Epps, boldly declares, "most people are killing themselves. If nothing changes, nothing changes."
He's has even taken his stance a step further by firing patients for not being accountable for doing their part. He passionately exclaims, "Check you sugar, take your meds, change what you eat, and get active. Partner with your doctor!"
Above all, the most alarming statistics is the fact that the fastest growing group are those under 25 - juvenile diabetes.
Please, don't forget how we got here and let's not stop now. We've got greater works to do. Both me and you.

 Sheree Darien