You will notice that this is a staff editorial about Rev. Martin Luther King. You will also likely notice that the national holiday celebrating this man had already come and gone.

Do we find it odd that we’re publishing a tribute to the man a day late? Of course not. Simply put, we think that Dr. King’s message is always relevant, especially to members of the University of Dayton community.

Among his many wonderful lessons, Dr. King taught us to love our neighbors, just as Jesus did. A deeply religious man, he believed that all people – no matter the color of their skin – were endowed with the same inalienable rights.

At the heart of his teachings was a belief that all people deserve the same dignity and respect, and that one day the nation would realize this universal principle and become one community of equals.

Which brings us back to UD.

We take great pride in our community – go to the school’s homepage and see for yourself. One must ask, though, what it really takes to be a community, and wonder if we’re living up to the expectations.

We must always be vigilant to make sure we’re living up to the expectations that come with the name. Are we treating our neighbors with respect? Are we honoring their inherent dignity?

If the answer is yes, then we can rightfully hold the title of a true community. If the answer is no, then we have some work to do.

In the end, the ultimate way to honor Dr. King is not to march in a parade or write an editorial, but to live in a manner he would be proud of. Luckily, his national holiday yesterday serves as a great reminder to check our behavior and remind ourselves of our responsibilities.

Better late than never.

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