PRAYERS, DREAMS, ACTS OF BRAVERY BY AN ORDINARY MAN

January 20hh is set aside to honor the vision, sacrifices and works of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr.  For those of us who sat spellbound and listened to the eloquent words of Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech there is no doubt that Dr. King was inspired by the treatment and conditions of some and led by his faith and his convictions to act.

From the beginning of time history has been peppered by leaders of epic proportions who did not begin their quests because of their stations in life, but because their inspired visions, sacrifices, works and examples taught others to be of good faith and strong courage.  I believe we are each given opportunities to serve, to bring about change, or to lead by example.  We each are called. The world is full of people of good faith and strong courage.  For some the task is small.  For others the dream is enormous. Some are quiet leaders and their work lessons the load on a smaller scale.  Their dedication to serve is no less than that of Dr. King.

When we know there is something required of us we are given the tools we need.  Dr. King was one of the most inspirational speakers of all time.  He had such command of language that he could cause others to see the dream that he had dreamed.  His leadership and sacrifice gave strength to those oppressed for so long.  Dr. King’s organizational skills, understanding of the political processes, timing and willingness to walk the long road from Atlanta to Selma gave voice to those who did not believe they could be heard.

We honor Dr. King today not only for what he did and believed to be possible, but for the leadership and courage he demonstrated that inspired leadership and courage in others.  I believe one thing that would be a fitting tribute to Dr. King would be for each of us to address an issue we feel strongly about and do our best to make the world a better place.

There were many remarkable things about Dr. King.  The qualities that I respect, admire and honor him for are that he had an unwavering commitment to his calling; he never asked anyone to sacrifice more than he gave himself and despite horrendous conditions he did not allow provocations to illicit a violent responses.  His powerful message and gift of speech never became distorted.  Any anger, fear or frustration he experienced he turned into a tool to bring about a transformation in the American people.

For those of us old enough to remember the haunting and inspiring words of Dr. King, and for those who have learned of his legacy of non-violent, peace and justice as part of American history, let us be thankful that Dr. King taught us that each person has value and worth and that each of us has responsibility for the other.

Julie A. Elseroad

Sr. Gerontology Specialist/Director of Business Development