We Shall Overcome!

Each year on the third Monday of January, we celebrate Martin Luther King day. We honor the man, but more than that we honor the principles he upheld in his struggle for the rights and dignity of his people. He literally gave his life, not only for his people, but for all people, everywhere. Wherever there is racism of any form, it enslaves all who are part of it, both the victim, and the perpetrator.

He proved that the principles of non-violence can triumph over hate. Like Ghandi and Jesus before him, he used love to turn the world upside down. We need only look at the continuing religious and tribal battles going on around the world to realize that revenge and retaliation only breed more violence. There is but one way to end the vicious cycle of violence. The path of love and forgiveness is not an easy one. But then nothing worthwhile is. When love triumphs, the realm of God is brought a little closer, and we are indeed made free.

I found this little poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson that I offer here, to honor this wonderful man, and to promote love rather than hate. Sleep in peace, dear Martin.

Forbearance

- Ralph Waldo Emerson