I believe it is good to remember that we are surrounded by extraordinary people in Bogalusa. This community was home to the likes of Robert Hicks, A. Z. Young, as well as many others who actually took action during the civil rights movement, the fight for all of our civil rights.

Along with your family, your community plays a big part in who you are, and the ones among us who take action against an injustice are to be commended. They can be your teachers. Watch them, and model what they do, if you’re comfortable with that. But to thine own self be true! You have to feel it yourself to have the energy to take up arms, either literally or figuratively.

On Tuesday, the Robert Hicks Foundation announced that thanks to the U.S Department of Interior and the National Park Service, it would receive nearly half a million dollars in federal funding for the civil rights museum in the namesake’s historic home. And at Second Missionary Baptist Church on Friday, Young was celebrated at a dedication ceremony for the state historic marker he earned.

The commendable ones in Bogalusa are not all gone. Look around yourself to see their presence and the gifts that they bring for you. And it’s not just about influential men — Valeria Hicks, who shared in her husband’s work, is still going strong. Society is made up of communities so we can all see what works best for us as a whole, and what doesn’t work for us all.

I know that a society that is consciously fully steeped in love is the best kind to be a part of, and that’s what Young and Hicks practiced. At it’s best, love is all-inclusive, so recognize every person as your brother or sister, and go beyond just human beings. We are all brothers and sisters on this planet.

Look for the lovers in your community. They may be rescuing animals, teaching children, feeding the poor, or helping the addicted. They are all certainly serving the community in whatever way they feel most moved.

Look around and you will find this generation’s Hicks and Young. I suggest that you acknowledge any loving one that you recognize. We need all the help we can get!

Marcelle Hanemann is a news reporter for The Daily News. You can email her at marcelle.hanemann@bogalusadailynews.com or call her at 985-732-2565, ext. 301.