Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!

Who knew we would be where we are now. Military troops are in D.C. preparing for war instead of an inauguration.

As a child, my dad and I would celebrate MLK day by marching the streets of Bowling Green, Ky then we would head into church to listen to selected guest speakers.

What I've learned throughout life and how I plan to educate my child is this:

Never allow someone to misuse MLK quotes to add their mantras on social justice. People will add softness to the conversation to make themselves feel good about "the work" they've done for social justice. Understand Clarkson and Jackson, It's more than a March and holding some signs. You can't say you're for social justice, then not invite experts in the room because you're not ready for the truth. Either you want to understand, or you don't. Don't appease social justice. You won't know everything, and you will make mistakes. Never allow anyone to tell you who you are. Never allow anyone to set the tone for you. You set the tone; you be the change you wish to see in the world.

If you're ever in Alabama, visit the following historical places:

• National Memorial for Peace and Justice and The Legacy Museum, Montgomery.

• Negro Southern League Museum, Birmingham.

• Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Birmingham.

• National Voting Rights Museum, Selma.

• Freedom Rides Museum, Montgomery.

• Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Montgomery.

• Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail.

• Kelly Ingram Park, Birmingham.

• Edmund Pettus Bridge, Selma