Today we celebrate the life of a man who changed the course of history, whose bravery inspired a nation, and whose courage defied the threats and hatred that tried to silence him. Across our nation the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are quoted to remember the struggle and the triumph of a movement and to inspire us all to continue to work towards peace and acceptance.
I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.
Then, it was race. Today, it is still race, but also divisions of social class, poverty, sexual orientation, political affiliation, religious beliefs. While we have come so far since the 1960s, we still have a long way to go.
The time is always right to do what is right.
We are faced every day with opportunities to do what is right. Sometimes it is as small as helping an elderly woman carry groceries to her car. Other times it is as difficult as speaking out against an injustice or prejudice.
In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the
silence of our friends.
But we must continue to use our voice and to live in the spirit of Dr. King. To live with light and peace, love and acceptance. To bring his Dream to reality.
Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.
