Happy New Year! As we reflect on the legacy and sacrifice of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on this day, many of his quotes come to mind that remind us to continue his work and live in harmony. Recall these words from Dr. King:
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that."
Strength to Love, 1963.
"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."
Letter from Birmingham, Alabama jail, April 16, 1963.
"We must come to see that the end we seek is a society at peace with itself, a society that can live with its conscience."
Montgomery, Alabama, March 25, 1965.
"Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope."
From the "I Have A Dream" speech in Washington, DC on August 28, 1963.
This last quote chimes brightly in my mind because despite the many challenges we have as a community, country, and world, in 2024 (60+ years later), there is still hope. As we become people with stronger character, stronger integrity, stronger morals and values, and a conscience that allows us to take accountability and correct mistakes, we will become stronger as people.
Recognizing that no one is perfect and we are all a work in progress is the truth that allows us the ability to offer grace to one another as we walk this path forward together. Follow the light, operate in love, walk in truth, and make Dr. King proud as we fulfill the legacy he placed before us.
Happy Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!
Written by Dr. Sabrina Brandon Ricks
Reference:
National Park Service (2024) Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. https://www.nps.gov/mlkm/learn/quotations.htm
