Yesterday was a day set aside to honor the work and legacy of a man who chose not to see America as it was, but as it could be.

And, although we have yet to realize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream, we have made some progress and still have the ability to make it become a reality.

Once again, this year Ohio University Southern will host a variety of events intended to educate students and the entire community, to hopefully broaden their sense of culture and history.

Dr. King’s legacy is far more than just a day off from work. The man fought tirelessly for civil rights and equality. Our nation owes him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid.

The holiday has passed but the need to celebrate King’s teachings and his legacy have not.

Our nation has much to learn, in regards to race and far beyond. King’s words can offer guidance on many of the other challenges facing our nation.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy,” King said.

That is a lesson that our leaders at every level should really take to heart.