June is a month that has always had special meaning for children and adults alike. It’s the time of year that we’re all beginning to relax a little more and enjoy the sunshine and blue skies, not to mention the beaches! It’s also the time of year that we come together for cookouts, family reunions, summer concerts, and an occasional wedding.

As I think about how I’ve spent my time during the month of June prior to 2021, I recall enjoying family picnics and trips out of town to destinations near and far because I needed some rest and relaxation from the long hours spent in front of my computer churning out work. But, when Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, I was sure to be intentional about commemorating the day by patronizing Black-owned businesses.

This year, I think it is a good idea to not only celebrate the Juneteenth holiday, but to celebrate the month of June by making a concerted effort to help some of my family members get closer to reaching some personal short-term goals, which amounts to freeing them in some respect. As I do this, I hope that those in whom I’m willing to invest my time and resources will be inspired to pay their blessings forward for many years to come.

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love (Galatians5:13, NIV).”