As the nation celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, we were reminded of King’s role in the history of our country.

Born in Georgia, King was most known for his role in the African-American Civil Rights Movement. He also promoted economic equality — and did it all without using violence.

King had a passion for the things he advocated for, which is something we all can learn from.

As we reflect back on the things he did in his life, we remembered something he once said: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter.”

While King was likely referring to the happenings of that time, this quote can still apply to us today.

If we want to make a difference, we have to get involved. We can’t simply have a hope something will change.

We have to do something.

Whether it is helping at your child’s school, volunteering with a service club, attending City Council meetings or writing letters to this newspaper, we must get involved.

We can make a difference.

In honor of King, we encourage you to speak out about things that matter. What matters to you may not matter to the next person, but find something that you’re passionate about, and get involved.