I sat quietly on my bed, flipping through the television channels, unable to sleep. Finally, I stumbled upon a documentary about one of my favorite artists, Bob Marley. Needless to say, I was ecstatic as he is one of the best reggae musicians of all time. I grew up listening to his music, but I never understood his life story. As I watched his biography attentively, I was amazed at his creativity and passion when he wrote and sang his songs. His determination to rise and become known throughout the world was truly awe inspiring.

Who is Bob Marley? Why am I so fascinated with his story?  Born in Jamaica, in 1945, he was a reggae song writer and singer who sold 20 million records world wide. He was recognized and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his accomplishments. Coming from a so called third world country was not an easy feat, and he never allowed the challenges in his life to keep him from living his dreams. He received world wide attention as an artist with his band called the Wailers.

Roots Rock Reggae, the message in his music, inspired those who were feeling oppressed and was also very prophetic. He was less than perfect in some areas of his life but don’t we all have some spot or blemish to contend with as the years go by?

 At the end of his life, after being diagnosed with cancer, Bob continued to play in concerts worldwide to very large crowds. I am fascinated by this man because he has touched my heart and many others through his poetic words of wisdom. He was deeply spiritual and used his voice to convey a message of hope, love, peace and encouragement.

I believe there are several key people who come along in everyone’s lifetime who has a true purpose which they share with the world. Then something tragic happens and then they are gone. In their brief time on planet earth, they were instrumental in raising their voices to help many people through their words, leadership, encouragement and inspiration,transcending boundaries of race and culture. Men and women like Martin Luther King, John Lennon, President Kennedy, Mahatma Gandhi, Princess Diana, and others.

Their agenda changed the world and they are forever recognized in the hearts of people. They were considered giants among men voicing their message of peace, love, hope and a revolution towards a better world. Bob Marley’s life was summed up in a 90 minute documentary, but his legacy lives on through his family and millions of people who had the opportunity to experience his music. I wonder, what kind of legacy will we all leave behind. Will we leave this world better than we found it? It doesn’t mean you have to be famous in order to make a difference. Think about the small things one can do to bring about change.

Nuggets of Truth: Bob Marley had some interesting quotes which speaks truth.

1. Open your eyes, look within, are you satisfied with the life you’re living.
2. When one door is closed, don’t you know, another is open.
3. Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing is gona be alright
4. Every man gotta right to decide his own destiny.
5. In this bright future, you can’t forget your past.