Today, we honor Martin Luther King, the pivotal figure in the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. His calm civil disobedience and charismatic leadership inspired men and women, young and old, here and around the world.
Dr. King inspired so many, so much that in 1964, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize – the youngest man to receive the prestigious honor.
In 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation designating the third Monday of January as a federal holiday to honor the man and his accomplishments.
When we think about how much violence is prevalent today and increasingly shown in movies, television shows, and video games, I totally agree with Dr. King’s daughter, Bernice.
Through his lectures and dialogues, Dr. King stirred, and still stirs, our conscience. Consider these MLK quotes as you honor him today:
On Leadership
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
On Love
“I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.”
On Getting Along
“We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.”
On Faith
“Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missiles and misguided men.”
On Service
“Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”
And as you think about that last quote, I remind you of the legislation passed in 1994 establishing Martin Luther King Day of Service to encourage citizens to use their federal holiday as an opportunity to give back to their communities.
Even if you don’t have today off, I encourage you to find a way to serve that forwards King’s vision and participate.
Let MLK Day be the start of a year in which we make a positive and peaceful impact in our communities.
Leave a Reply