In the United States, today is an official holiday. A day set aside to remember and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.We look back on his life and legacy with admiration. But I wonder if we fully appreciate the price he paid for that legacy.
During his powerful civil rights and abolition work, Dr. King
- was arrested nearly two dozen times
- was physically assaulted at least four times
- had his house bombed during the bus boycott of 1955-56
- was assassinated in 1968
He also won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
Today's civil rights activists continue the work of Dr. King, inspired by his sacrifice and passion. We take some comfort in knowing that, if we suffer abuse of any kind because of our work, we are in good company. Our work is fueled not only by our conviction, but by our gratitude for those who have gone before us.
Most of us have heard bits and pieces of Dr. Kings "I Have a Dream" speech. If you've never read or listened to it in it's entirety, do so today. Let his words move and inspire you. Let his passion stir your own and move you to action. Let his conviction strengthen your own.
Let us, today, in his honor, determine that "..we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters..."
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