How Did I Get On This Road

I think I was in fifth grade.  We took our first family vacation.  We were a poor family so this was a real treat.  We drove an old car down to Tennessee - the car was packed - Mom, Dad, 10-year old me, probably 2 sisters and a baby brother.  My dad's nickname was Smokey.  He was a carpenter when I was little - he worked long days in the sun.  He was tanned to a chestnut brown with gorgeous black, wavy hair. 
Our destination was LookOut Mountain, Tennessee.  We went to Rock City and rode the Incline which was a type of cable car that went up to the top of the mountain.  I was curious about the sign in the cable car - white person in front - negroes in the back.  I wanted to sit in the back - but my parents wouldn't let me.  When we got to the top - more signs - at the public restrooms and the water fountains.  Being the annoying, curious kid - I wanted to know all about this - I had never seen signs like this and hadn't really experienced racism - yet. 
My dad had a long talk with me about 'colored' people and the injustices that they faced.  Early on, my dad taught me that ALL people are equal. 
I don't think I have ever stopped questioning - I've never stopped wondering.  I'm going to keep traveling down this highway - things are bound to get better.