|
Remembering the Life of Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr.
Division. Separation. Disharmony. Words that we hear all too often in the past period of months, even years. As a nation – as a state - and as a party, what better time to think about these things but on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. It is upon this day, that we should reflect on a man who exemplified having the courage of one’s convictions, in unification, of justice and authentic freedom. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., left a tremendous legacy of non-violent change. He created a movement in America at a time where there was much political division, particularly over the Viet Nam War. He stayed true to the ideals of love, of peaceful protest, and of the principles in the Declaration of Independence, and the United States Constitution. He stayed true to the words of the Lord, which are seen throughout now famous quotes.
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.”
***
“I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of
former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit
together at the table of brotherhood.”
The above quote strikes a personal chord with me. Georgia was Dr. King’s home, and it was here in Georgia, particularly, that I’m certain he envisioned that one day we could all be unified, working together, toward common causes of liberty, justice and freedom for all. And not that just those things would exist, but it would become the norm across our great country. It is also my hope and dream that
we all can break bread together, without being bound by things like race, color or gender. And, that we can come together in unity for a better Georgia regardless of polarizing political views. It is a great fear of mine, that the younger generations will forget the lessons taught by Dr. King. The lessons of love, kindness, generosity and positive change that Dr. King lived by. Today I am thankful that
we have his remembrance to think on the things that he taught, lived and showed the world. It is by listening to his preserved speeches that we can hear his passion – his heart – and his words of how to treat our fellow man. And, it is in the same way we can hear his mission to have a better America by simply doing what our Declaration of Independence says, “We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness—That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed…”
What I will be thinking of between now and Monday, is how I can do my part. How can I be part of his famous, “I Have a Dream” speech? I believe that what I can do is ensure that the Republican party exemplifies the same ideals of love, peace, unity and fulfillment of seeing that the consent of the governed is rightfully advocated for in Cobb County, remember Dr. King’s words:
“Oppressed people cannot remain oppressed forever. The yearning
for freedom eventually manifests itself.”
Let us all remember that it truly is not the color of one’s skin but the content of their character. Let us all move forward in unity and passion for our nation. Let us all pause and look in the mirror and ask of ourselves, “Am I doing all I can”? As Dr. King said, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve”. Are you serving?
|