Reflections of Charleston Unity Walk – Inspirational Look Back

By Mark A. Leon

June 21, 2015 marked a momentous moment of solidarity as thousands of all ages and backgrounds took to the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for the historic Unity Walk.  This event showed the people of Charleston and around that world that we are choosing peace over violence; love over hate.  It was one of the most beautiful and symbolic gestures of hope this city has ever bore witness.

For one night, all communities became one.  Hand in hand they stretched across the Charleston Harbor from the water to the stars in song, prayer and most important celebration.  Celebration of the lives lost and the future ahead.

Often times, an event can change people, but on this night, the people of Charleston changed the world.

Thought inspirational thoughts and images from that memorable evening, let us remember the Unity Walk and reflect on our own personal memories.

Unity Walk for Charleston – June 21, 2015

“Empowerment, thought, collaboration and creativity. All are catalysts of love, life and change. Our body encompasses the most complex and unexplainable invention we know in the universe. We have researched, examined, dissected and observed, but cannot explain. We know this: The power of the heart and mind is the driving force of humanity. It is in this we find strength and the vulnerability to love.”

“The greatest injustice in life is losing sight of oneself. Your legacy is defined by the actions you take, the bonds you create and the path of goodness you lead. To be yourself is a gift with no value. It is a priceless display of individualism and should be blessed and cherished for all our days.”

“The key to life and the pursuit of happiness is balance and accepting the moment. We cannot look back; nor forward. We define our legacy by the achievements and love we give in the now. Life is a chain of moments; each one having an impact on others. Define yourself in this moment; find balance in the now and never hold back on love.”

“Find your peak of achievement and once you catch your breath, reach higher.”

“We live and dream in color. It is condition of humanity that allows us to see a rainbow through the eyes of imagination. For a brief moment we fell into black and white. That will be no more. We are Charleston. Alive with the colors of love.”

“Another day passes and the Earth closes it’s eyes so we may reflect on a day of life and love.”

“Some nights just remind you of the magical gift of being alive.”

“Sometimes the moment seizes you. It takes hold of your senses and showers you with an explosion of life’s wonders. Let go. Don’t be a hero, don’t be a savior, don’t be a martyr..Just be. The moment will take over the rest.”

“Life is a tapestry of hope, desire, pain, love, heartache and passion woven with flesh and blood to create the gift of humanity. To find balance; find ease is the potion that will run through your body fueling your existence and laying the groundwork for your legacy.”

“When you open your heart and allow it to be broken and shattered like a precious glass, then and only then will you feel passion and ultimately feel alive”

“The conscious mind has the powerful ability to choose love and be part of the beauty of humanity.”

“The difference between acceptance and greatness is one step. The power to believe in yourself is the greatest pain and reward. Whether you bleed or rejoice, it is worth the journey”

“Find Peace. Hold on tight. Make it a partner in your journey. Harness it and fuel it with insight and curiosity.”

“Don’t be a finger painting. Be a masterpiece. You are alive, therefore you have the capability to dream and achieve. Stop wishing for heaven. Find it within yourself and let it breathe.”

“Greatness is not about what you accomplish, but who you share it with.”

“Greatness is not about what you accomplish, but who you share it with.”