COURAGE.

I have always had this poster hanging up in my room and have always known the story of the 1968 Olympics, when Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists to symbolize unity for their nation. But it was not until the other night when I was watching the ESPYs that I realized what this symbol truly meant and the courage it took to make a stand that is so powerful.

These men put their careers, lives and families in jeopardy to stand for what they believed in. Everything they had worked for all of their lives they put on hold to stand up for themselves, their people and their beliefs. A lot of people have this image on t-shirts and posters, but I wonder if people understand the true impact and symbol that this act stands for. I wonder if people actually have the courage to do what these men did. To give up everything that you have worked for and to put yourself on the line, knowing that you would not be backed up for your actions and will be persecuted for standing up for what you believe in and what is right. These men were black balled and had people turn their backs to them. It has taken them 40 years for to be recognized and acknowledge for their stance and their courage. Very few people have that type of courage to stand up when no one else will and to put their lives on the line. That type of rare courage needs to be admired, respected and fully understood. This image is more than a poster or a t-shirt.