Today we remember and celebrate the life and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who showed the world how to fight battles not with violence, but instead with peace.

As we begin year three of the global pandemic and carry the burden of COVID-19, we understand that it’s not always easy to find peace in your own world right now.  Life feels heavy and sometimes overwhelming. On this day, I’d like to pause and reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and his message of love, compassion and unending kindness.

Did you know that MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service? Americans are encouraged to volunteer to engage and improve their communities. Dr. King’s example is our call to action.

Dr. King said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

As an employee at Cook Children’s, you are living up to Our Promise to improve the health of every child, every day. This is such a special organization with an incredible culture of love, healing and togetherness. But I also know so many of you go beyond our walls to be active in your local communities, schools, churches, nonprofits and more.

While you continue to work side by side, it’s more important than ever before to find ways to collectively serve and be kind to one another. I invite you to ask a peer, “How are you doing?” and then really listen to their response. A small act that can go such a long way. We also need to turn inwards and give ourselves grace and patience during these difficult times.

Today I hope you are inspired to help your coworkers, neighbors or strangers as Dr. King would because your efforts will not go unnoticed. It all starts with one gesture.

You matter and your service and kindness is much needed at Cook Children’s and in this world.