Top PhotoView from the Lincoln Memorial on that famous day. Powerful images. Powerful messages. (Aug. 1963)
Photo at Left
MLK Jr meeting with student leaders in the south (Early 1960's)
Students and families,
As I type this, it is snowing hard outside. We have today off from school and it is rather peaceful as I sit by my fireplace typing and grading.
I've been thinking about the amazing MLK Jr. today. You may not know this, but he inspires me every school day. I was a little girl when he gave his famous speech in Washington DC, in front of the Lincoln Memorial, proclaiming , "I Have a Dream". My parents told me how very important and brave it was. You may now realize that this speech is now referred to as the "Speech of the Century," for very good reasons.
I was a little bit older, maybe 9 years old when MLK was shot. I distinctly recall being in the car with my parents when the news came over the radio that he had been killed. Both my parents gasped. They tried to explain it all to me. I am not African American but, I knew from a young age, MLK was fighting for equality for African Americans in this country AND equality for all. He preached and practiced non-violence at an explosive time in our country's history when most people wanted to react with violence.
My parents were progressive for their time and made sure all of us kids understood the importance of this man's words and work.
Now, as an adult with children of my own, I have a small plaque in my dining room that says, "Faith is taking the first step even you don't see the whole staircase. MLK wrote this. He believed it. I do too. What does it mean to you? What types of "faith" do you need in life...in yourself, in your families, in your peers, in our country, etc?
Now, please take a minute from studying for midterms to hear this great man's voice. I've enclosed a link I think you'll like.
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