The nation paused Monday to honor the memory and life’s work of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Most of America probably gave little thought to the man’s work, simply choosing instead to either gripe because the banks and post offices were closed or simply viewing the day as a “free day” to do as you please.

King would have been fine with that.

Despite what many people in power may have believed at the time King was alive and at the forefront of the civil rights movement, he wasn’t just fighting for the rights of black Americans. He fought for the rights of all Americans.

He fought for blacks.

He fought for other nationalities as well.

And he fought for the poor.

But mostly he fought for an American ideal that was spelled out in words on the pages of American history, but that were grossly absent in the hearts of those controlling our country for the first nearly 200 years.

Critics like to point out King’s personal or moral flaws as if their own lives are perfect. Had these folks lived in biblical times, they may have been among the lot that Jesus suggested should throw the first stone at the accused adulterous woman.

King’s non-violent, but insistent approach to equality forced America to confront its dark, shameful past.

We are all fortunate that we live in a time that was made better by great men like King who stood up for what was right and just, despite heavy costs.

Let us all remember his life’s mission and honor him by remembering he fought for all of America.