Judge people on who they are, not their packaging

It's only appropriate during Black History Month to honor the rich legacy and contributions by Black Americans.

Black history in Idaho can be traced back to the Lewis and Clark expedition, with the invaluable assistance of York, the slave of William Clark who traveled with the group.

There are the black explorers, gold prospectors, miners and rancher and many others who followed in York's footsteps seeking a fresh start in the West.

There are the businessmen and artists, the mothers and fathers, everyday folks who contribute in ways both large and small to making Idaho what is has been and what it will be.

And that's how it should be. Skin color, after all, is merely packaging — and while part of who we are — doesn't define the kind of person we are and the greatness we can achieve. That can only be measured through an individual's soul, heart and determination.

Judge people on who they are, not what you think they are.

After all, don't the best presents always seem to come in unexpected packages. You know, the ones with "wrapping paper" made from the Sunday comics?

Think about how rich and wonderful this country is, how people from all different walks of life and cultures have accomplished some pretty amazing things.

We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to allow ALL people the chance to dream and to achieve those dreams — regardless of the packaging.

Caroline Lobsinger is the managing editor of the Daily Bee.