When Rosa Parks passed away last fall, the Today Show paid a moving tribute to our civil rights icon.  I tried frantically to find space on a videotape to record the segment. My hope was that I’d have this piece to share with my niece and nephew, as well as my own children.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find that tape fast enough.

Fortunately, I already know the history of Mother Parks and I’ll be sharing that story with or without the Matt Lauer narration.

This alone is the most significant aspect of Black History Month; the fact that we can and have always been able to keep our history alive by word of mouth (and pen, drum, and song, etc.).

Some jokingly say that February is the one month we’re “allowed to be aware of ourselves,” but beneath that sarcasm lies in the fact that as African Americans, we know that we can and should celebrate our history and culture every day of the year.

Americans have recognized Black History annually since 1926, first as "Negro History Week" and later as “Black History Month.”

And although Blacks have been in America as far back as colonial times (some say further back than that), it was not until the 20th century that African Americans gained a respectable presence in the history books. In fact, Black history had barely begun to be studied—or even documented—when this observance originated. And there’s still quite a ways to go.

I’m heartened by the fact that we have the ability (now more than ever) to document our own histories, particularly our own personal stories.

Keep in mind we don’t need to just recognize national heroes and events. Look to your own families for inspiration on a daily basis. You might be surprised at the level of reverence you can carry with you throughout the year when you’re looking to find your place in this world.

This past year, my family celebrated the 95th and 87th birthdays of my grandmothers, and we told the stories of their lives to everyone who would listen. And if we’re smart, we’ll write books or produce documentaries about them.  Because while we celebrate history – there’s still no time like the present to do so!

Look to Paul Stewart’s story in this month’s issue. He documented our history when some refused to believe we had history in the West.

And use today’s technology to document the accomplishments and anniversaries of your day-to-day existence.

So while we celebrate each iconic figure, milestone, and accomplishment, let’s remember to celebrate the everyday histories in our own lives.

Trust me, years from now, your stories will matter--no TIVO required.

Tracy Williams, Managing Editor