It’s MLK Day!

When we think about Dr. Martin Luther King, Junior, passion and power come to mind. He was a tireless promoter of treating everyone fairly. Passion is what motivated him to continue in the face of strong, mainstream opposition. King’s energetic power enabled him to carry forth his passion to the world.

King was a religious man in the positive, uplifting manner. The Golden Rule informed his goals. Forgiveness of his adversaries allowed him to remain focused on his mission. This combination is simple and can be emulated by anyone–religious or non-religious. To treat others as we want to be treated is a basic human virtue. The ability to forgive those who wish us harm frees the mind from destructive resentments. To have equality and freedom in the forefront of one’s hopes and dreams, enables a high quality life.

King’s public activism began over 60 years ago. His passion and skillful use of power caused him to become a major figure in the American civil rights movement. His manner of activism utilized the social mindset of the day–peace, love, and equality. His authenticity and strength set him apart from so many of the other civil rights activists and speakers of his time.

He understood that violence in pursuit of one’s aims is counter-productive in that it turns more people against than in favor of one’s overarching purpose. To fully engage conflict resolution and conversation, it is vital to do so in a peaceful, mature manner. At the same time, being assertive rather than aggressive makes all the difference in the world of activism. We can say that MLK took the high road in life.

King was more than just the “I Have a Dream” speech. He gave other speeches and sermons throughout his life. His words advocated positive, non-violent action in service of the downtrodden members of society. He wanted his audiences to engage his simple way of utilizing the Golden Rule and assertive focus as they worked in unity for universal civil rights.

In essence, Martin Luther King, Junior was impactful on the nation during his time on Earth. His legacy has turned out to be timeless. King’s overall message of bettering ourselves in the process of bettering society strikes an uplifting chord in our hearts. His simple message of the power of loving one another allows his legacy to remain vibrantly alive.

Today’s national holiday is in honor of a leader who lived an honorable life of service to humanity. His words and actions have been inspiring to people who care about fairness and equality for all people. Today, as we hear and read tributes to Dr. King, we can take a few minutes to contemplate and ponder the passion and power that made up King’s character.

Today’s holiday celebrates encouragement and inspiration. We are reminded to speak and act from our highest inner nature. Our values of freedom, liberty, and justice for all are being celebrated today.

Ciao

The Blue Jay of Happiness quotes Martin Luther King Junior. “There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must take it because his conscience tells him it is right.”