Whatsoever things are true...

“When our thoughts--which bring actions--are filled with hate against anyone, Negro or white, we are living in Hell. That is as real as Hell will ever be.

~Dr. George Washington Carver (1860-1943)

The man who spoke those words has always been a particular hero of mine. Born into slavery, ransomed as a week-old infant from slave traders, he and his older brother found a home with Moses Carver and his wife (their former “owners”) who raised them as their own sons.

Always thirsty for knowledge, he pursued an education through the years, despite racial prejudice and rejection. He discovered a talent for painting and made loyal friends along the way. Eventually, Booker T. Washington, the founder of Tuskeegee Institute in Alabama, invited him to become head of the non-existent science department at the fledgling college. Dr. Carver literally built it from reclaimed materials found in the garbage dump and his own dedication and determination.

He served his black students and the struggling white farmers of the community with equal dedication. He endured insults with a humility gifted to few people. His deep faith in his Creator led him to heights of discovery and invention which he shared freely with those who needed the help and knowledge.

I think it was no coincidence that I discovered this particular quote today, because yesterday I was thinking how we who have sat silent and those who rage mindlessly and violently, have truly unleashed the demons of hell in our country.

So it’s fitting to remember one person whom God blessed with wisdom, knowledge, talent, and love for others. The Bible tells us,

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Phillipians 4:8)

I like to think on men like Dr. George Washington Carver and pray God will raise up others so gifted to walk among us in his footsteps.

“No individual has any right to come into the world and go out of it without leaving behind him distinct and legitimate reasons for having passed through it.”