He was so far ahead of his time, actually timeless in his wisdom, much of it a reflection of Christian values. Early in launching my career in the 70s as one of the “first women” hired for a “man’s job” (jobs that are now held by women in equal numbers to men), I knew there would be many hurdles of discrimination and antipathy ahead. One weekend I read Booker T. Washington’s biography cover to cover. It was so inspiring and empowering to read of his tireless dedication in the face of much worse prejudice than I would undergo. I’ve thought of his words so often in these nearly 60 years since. I hope to meet him on the other side to say thank you.
I’m sure his work has inspired many more people than he ever thought it would. His wisdom was truly universal.