“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” — Declaration of Independence, 1776

In 1960 in New Orleans, Ruby Bridges had her first day as a first-grader. It was an unusual day. Policemen escorted six-year old Ruby from her car into the building. She spent most of the day in the principal's office. Then later when she entered her new classroom there were no other students. Why? The white parents had taken their children out of school that day. They didn’t want their kids going to school with Ruby because she was black.

Ruby’s parents knew that this was going to be difficult, but they stood strong — even after her father lost his job and her grandparents lost their farm. They were determined to give their daughter a good education and take a stand for what is right. The family stuck together. They knew that their choice would benefit their children and future children because all children — whether red, yellow, brown, black or white — deserve a good education.

Almost sixty years ago, Ruby Bridges took the first step. Because of her courage, children of every race and nationality can live and learn together. Were Ruby and her family scared? You better believe it, but they didn’t let that fear stop them. And they didn’t let racism stop them. They were Courageous — they stood up for what is right.

You might be reading this and thinking, “Sure…this sounds good. But does what I do really matter?” The truth is that you can make a difference in this world by overcoming evil with good. It only takes one person to make a change. It’s the power of one.

If each one of us decides to rise to the challenge and be just one, like Ruby and her family, we will find strength and determination to make it through whatever tough stuff comes our way. We’ll not only make it through, but we’ll be better for the experience and so will our big world. As we choose Courage, we will make a positive impact on our friends, families and communities. We can turn sorrow into joy and fighting into peace. And that, my friends, is Love In A Big World. Will you be that one?