As you rise and review your calendars for February, I am taking note of how important this month is to me.

 

I’ve decided to label today’s blog as “Legends and Trailblazers” because there are plenty of Legends and Trailblazers specifically in my life whose experiences I continually learn from.  I’ve learned not to take anything for granted these days and have seen plenty throughout the years of how so many people of color are making a difference in the lives of others.

Legend Defined-Legend Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

Trailblazer Defined- https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trailblazer

Sadly, I also know many will discount the human works of people of color.  I am also not naïve that some groups don’t recognize the importance of Black History Month or why we should even have it.

 

Looking at how far I’ve come as a person of color and all the opportunities afforded to me, it’s a humbling experience.

 

I see talents constantly wasted by our youth today and how society has changed over the last 50 years since I graduated high school.

 

Let me reflect on two individuals who, although imperfect, allowed me to see that all things are possible.

 

Today, I’m thinking of Kobe Bryant, who died on January 26, 2020, at 41.

 

Kobe Bryant Dead in Helicopter Crash. Here’s What to Know | TIME

 

It’s incredible how time escapes us.

 

I grew up watching Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan.  Kobe Bryant took it to another level watching the “Legends and Trailblazers” before his time.

 

I have his book, “Kobe Bryant: The Mamba Mentality, How I Play,” as a testament that hard work does pay off in the long run.

 

Today, I know that many don’t want to put the work in to be the best you can be.

 

Because I was part of the “All Volunteer Military,” I was inspired by the “Join the People Who’ve Joined the Army” in 1973, which later evolved into “This is the Army.”

 

I’m reminded of when I joined the military in 1974; the slogan I best remember that lasted 20 years (1980- 2001) was “Be All You Can Be,” which continues to stay with me today.

 

Ironically, The Army has returned to the recruiting slogan “Be All You Can Be.” The effective date is March 8, 2023.

 

Be All You Can Be – U.S. Army’s new brand trailer | U.S. Army (youtube.com)

 

I am forever grateful that the U.S. Army set me up for success when my skin color didn’t matter as I knocked on doors and embraced different challenges to “Be All I Can Be” as a person of color.

 

Again, it’s incredible how time escapes us.

 

The other is Carl Weathers, who starred in ‘Rocky’ movies and ‘The Mandalorian,’ who recently passed away in his sleep on February 1, 2024.

 

Carl Weathers, a former NFL linebacker who became a Hollywood action movie and comedy star, playing nemesis-turned-ally Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies, facing-off against Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator” and teaching golf in “Happy Gilmore.”

 

Carl Weathers was so much more than a sidekick (msn.com)

 

Each time I read about the passing of someone I grew up watching making a difference, I try to reflect on their lessons.  However, it’s hard to explain those lessons to someone who never experienced them as “Legends and Trailblazers” because they were unimportant to them.

 

I know that “Legends and Trailblazers” might have different connotations depending on your upbringing.

 

My intent is, with all the fanfare that February brings, not only as a Leap Year, I don’t want you to forget this is also Black History Month.  Black History Month will compete with Super Bowl LVIII (58), Galentine’s Day, Valentine’s Day, the Beginning of Lent, President’s Day, American Heart Month, National Cancer Prevention Month, and many others.

 

Too many “Legends and Trailblazers” have affected my life.   I have watched their contributions and how they have impacted me to do better.

 

Today, I challenge you to think of those “Legends and Trailblazers” that have affected your life and where you are in making an impact for someone else by paying it forward.

 

Both Kobe Bryant and Carl Weathers have paid it forward in their industry of Sports and Acting.

 

Kobe Bryant is paying it forward.

 

Paying it forward: Kobe Bryant’s enduring gift to LeBron James – All Lakers | News, Rumors, Videos, Schedule, Roster, Salaries And More (si.com)

 

Carl Weathers is paying it forward.

 

Adam Sandler pays tribute to late co-star Carl Weathers: ‘Loyal as hell. Funny as hell’ (aol.com)

 

These two people, Kobe Bryant and Carl Weathers, are both “Legends and Trailblazers” in my mind.

 

I’m honored today for their impact as we celebrate Black History Month and for each being all they could be.

 

As I celebrate their lives, there are countless other “Legends and Trailblazers” that made it possible for Kobe Bryant and Carl Weathers to succeed.

 

I’m honored today for the impact made through those known as “Legends and Trailblazers” as we celebrate Black History Month and for each being all they could be.