The List: Selma 50

If you haven't already guessed, I'm completely in love with African-American history. In fact, it was my minor in college and potentially what I plan to study in a post-graduate program. So, there was no way I was missing the Bridge Crossing Jubilee this weekend in Selma in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday.

I haven't tweeted or posted on Facebook about this experience and I've only posted on Instagram once. I couldn't find the words. I couldn't muster up the courage to speak on something so perfect. Words would just taint it.

But I think I'm ready to share a bit from these two days that forever changed me. Some of what I felt, I want to hold on to like a secret between two young friends. Some of it, I want to wait and tell my (potential) children. It was a sacred moment and I reminded myself periodically throughout those two days not to forget to take it all in. Remember what you smell. Remember who you see. Remember what the sky looked like. 

On Sunday, before we crossed the bridge, I put my phone on airplane mode and stuck it in my backpack. I didn't want to call anyone or text or be tempted to Tweet about it. I just wanted to experience it.

As we crossed the bridge singing, I thanked God for letting me live in this time. I thanked Him for letting me experience this with my brother and sister-in-law. And mostly I thanked him for all of those brave people who thought enough of others to risk life and limb for something we take for granted today. Yes, we were there to celebrate but we were also there to stand in solidarity and to remind the world that we are still fighting for voting rights. It was a sobering moment but also one that filled me with hope.

So, today's list, is a list of one (not sure if that's really a list, but it's my blog lol); dedicated to the person who moved me the most this weekend. I had the honor of meeting him once while in college and this weekend I was so honored to hear him speak again. I hope we never forget his service and sacrifice. He's one of the last living heroes from that era and I pray we fill the remainder of his life with gratitude and love.

1. Congressman John Lewis 

Congressman Lewis pictured here with Selma director Ava Duvernay and actor David Oyelowo

Always in love,