Rosa Parks

It's quite easy to get so caught up in all the holiday hub-bub that we forget about just how good our lives actually are. Being born and raised in the States has given me an unimaginable number of freedoms and a unique perspective on life. All in all, most of us have food to eat, a place to sleep, clothing to wear, a job to earn money, and loved ones that care about our wellbeing.

Just 52 years ago, things were different. It's more than difficult to fathom just how much our national culture has changed in this short time. It may not seem like a short period for humans, but the planet has been around for billions of years, so think of it that way.

On December 1st, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus in Alabama to a white man. Her actions brought international attention to the unfair segregation of African Americans in everyday situations. Rosa's infamous "quiet strength" led to the birth of the historical Civil Rights Movement and people of every color and creed owe her an immense debt of gratitude.

Passing away just two years ago at the learned age of 92, Rosa once said, "I would like to be known as a person who is concerned about freedom and equality and justice and prosperity for all people." As a memorial to her dedication and perseverance, Organic Style has released a special bouquet of red "Freedom" roses.

Certified by Veriflora, the bouquet features "large-headed roses in a lush, vibrant red with abundant petals, with minimal thorns, and a long vase life. Includes one dozen long-stemmed roses." In addition to beautiful flowers, 10% of the sale's proceeds go to the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute for Self Development, established in 1987 with the aim of motivating and directing youth to reach their highest potential.

As the holiday season comes and goes, wrapping paper gets recycled, and gifts find their way into our daily lives, we can't forget the sacrifices and struggles of those who have come before us. Rosa Parks is just one of the many men and women who have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place for all those who are yet to come - if she were still alive, I'm sure she would be a dedicated eco-warrior as well.

www.rosaparks.org
www.organicstyle.com/Product/Detail.aspx?productId=1613&categoryid=3

Originally posted on victoria-e.com