Jesse Jackson has lived history, and changed it. I saw it firsthand Joseph B. Kyles

My relationship with the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. began through the wisdom and guidance of my uncle, the late Rev. Samuel Billy Kyles, an iconic civil rights leader, pastor, and close friend of both Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Jackson.

While I was still in college, my uncle entrusted me with a remarkable responsibility, to serve as Jackson’s “body man,” his shadow and aide during his visits and engagements. What began as a student assignment soon became a defining journey of mentorship, faith and lifelong friendship.