K.P. Singh

Great men remind us to embrace peace, tirelessly serve, restore hope and make a difference with all the gifts entrusted to us in the lives and times that surround our earthly journey. Sam Jones exemplified such spirit and commitment.

Jones, the guiding light of the Indianapolis Urban League, succeeded in his mission to make Indianapolis a better place for all of us. His legacy and vision are a lasting inspiration for all of us.

His leadership style offered a hopeful and persuasive approach that yielded positive results and minimal friction. Some people might have mistaken his deliberate, patient style as having no edge or drama. His quiet demeanor and deep understanding of the serious problems of the African-American community and race relations were in sharp contrast to the power-play, aggressive style pursued by many community leaders across the nation.

Jones was a patient soldier fighting the battles for opportunity and equal justice. He was himself an early witness to the pain and scars of experiences that denied those fundamental rights to all Americans. He dedicated his life to doing something about it.

Every day, he raised his voice to the concerns of his people, restoring their dignity and spirits; he fought for their rightful place in the national fabric as he enhanced the mission of the Indianapolis Urban League. This wise leader led the community toward cherished dreams and saw far beyond the ordinary rewards.

As a tribute to this great man and the many others who embrace and support his ideas, let us expand the depth of their dreams. Let us shape a future that recognizes our growing tapestry of diverse ideas, cultures and people who share and serve our community today.

Like enlightened teachers, they show us the way. Like guiding lights, they warn us of the unfriendly surprises on our passage through the turbulence that may lie ahead. Great men prepare us for the rewards of courageous daring. Trumpets do not always announce their efforts and achievements. They live and serve for the greater good of others. They represent spiritual foundations of humanity.

The legacy of Sam Jones is secure, but his dream is nowhere near its destination. We must continue to support his inspiring legacy by striving to make our beloved city of Indianapolis the best that it can be -- a welcome and wonderful place for all people.

Copyright ©2003 KP Singh. About the author