Today is the day we celebrate the life and legacyof
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
His non violence movement changed this world forever.
I once had to memorize this moving speech.
I believe I was 11 years old. When I actually sat down and read it, truly read it, my heart jumped in my chest.
I cannot imagine what segregation was ever like. I am the first in my family to never experience it. However, I have heard the tales that still linger like a rain cloud.
To not be allowed to simply eat at the same restaurant as others merely because of the color of your skin.
To be hosed and attacked by dogs because you desire the everyday luxuries that you can only hope to obtain.
To be thought of as less than a person.
There are some who would never embrace the dream.
I have, in my lifetime, experienced those people.
At 8, I witnessed the Klan drive by my house.
I will never forget having to sit very quietly as they rode by with their rants.
I will also never forget the image of my mother with her pistol in her lap as they did.
I still believe in Dr. King's Dream....
"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up
and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."
Keep the Dream alive...
God bless your mother!
ReplyDeleteI rememeber the first time I really read the whole of this speech too. He was an amazing man and a true statesman, a great orator too.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine what segregation would've been like to experience, and I can't imagine how you must've felt at age 8, what a horrible thing. Words fail me.
I have a similar post up on my blog today. I was reading through the now famous speech again today. I still don't think we've reached where we need to go, but I believe in my heart we are beginning to take more positive steps in that direction. Thank you for the post and reminding others of the incredible difference that Martin Luther King made any many lives then and now.
ReplyDeleteTake care, Sue
I can't even begin to imagine.....
ReplyDeleteteri
Hi there! I say "Amen" too! Let's not forgot he was also a preacher - I'm sure he was annointed by the Lord.
ReplyDeleteMy dear, I was for sure I was a follower but I checked and NOPE so I just signed up.
Cynthia K. (Beauty and Blessings)
Hello my dear!
ReplyDeleteAmen to your post.
I hope your knee is healing as it should. Did you have a nice visit with your dad?
xOxO deb
A horrid memory...one I pray will not have to be relived by any future generation.
ReplyDeleteAmen! ~ Angela
ReplyDelete