January 15, 1929 ~ April 4, 1968
Dr. King has been deeply on my mind. So, it has taken me a few extra days to log this post. I keep thinking about how much he accomplished during such a short life and how very young he was when he was taken from us. By the age of 39, he had put civil and human rights in the forefront of political and public discourse, forever changing how those inalienable rights are perceived, fought for and engaged. He was a leader among leaders; a son, a father and a husband chosen for a special task. He dared us to become better human beings. And he made the ultimate sacrifice, giving his life for this mission. For this I thank him and the many other sung and unsung heroes who were bold and courageous enough to stand in the face of danger, to have the audacity to make a difference.
Have we come far toward realizing Dr. King's Dream? Yes, in many ways. That America has a black First Family indicates that things have indeed changed. But we should not be lulled into thinking we now live in a post-racial America. Nothing could be further from the truth. We have but to look at the mean-spirited response to our President and his family to know that for as far as we have come, we have that much further to go. And God willing, we as a nation and as a world will keep walking towards the dream of equality for all; that somewhere deep within us we will step to the shared rhythm of one common heart beat.
I am hopeful, though guardedly so.
Happy Birthday, Dr. King. Thank you for your life-changing, life-giving contribution.
With love and gratitude,
LAFF
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