PVCC Puma Press: March 2005

Read at the Black History Month Opening celebration on February 2, the following is a speech delvered by student Kia Smith, PVCC Student Leadership Council Chairperson

Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but by how we react to what happens, not by what life brings to us, but by the attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst; a spark that creates extraordinary results.” –Anonymous

Often the month of February is thought to be a month for love. A month when men can redeem themselves for the other 11 months they neglected their significant others. To me, February is a month to celebrate my ancestors, family and peers. February is nationally recognized as Black History month. This month is 28 full days for us to collectively educate our community on our history as well as share the many meaningful contributions made by our fellow African- Americans.

Although time and time again people focus on the struggle of African-Americans in the past (during slavery) so much that it brings an overwhelming sense of sympathy to us all. February is not a time for sympathy. Instead, it is time to rejoice in all we have done, all we are doing and all we plan to do in the future. The pain and suffering our ancestors endured were character tests that made them as well as us stronger. February is a time to celebrate but every day of every month is a time to appreciate our heritage and continue to contribute to our history.

So, again I say, “Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but by how we react to what happens, not by what life brings to us but by what attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst; a spark that creates extraordinary results.” –Anonymous

In short we must make these words of wisdom a reality to support the present and advance our future.