Last weekend, Greg and I flew to Pittsburgh to see my youngest sister Mary, and her two children Jack and Gracie. My middle sister and her husband joined us from Northern Virginia, so we had a nice family reunion.
Meanwhile, everyone in Pittsburgh was excited about the Steelers football team – and, indeed, they won the playoff game, which we watched on a wide-screen TV at the hotel. (Note to non-Steelers fans – you must run fast if you are wearing anything other than yellow and black!)
The reason we actually went to Pittsburgh, however, was Mary’s birthday. She was born on January 15…Martin Luther King Day. I can still remember the day Martin Luther King was assassinated. We watched the news on an old black and white TV.
There are many people who are important, but I count Martin Luther King, Jr. as someone who has helped change the landscape of our country. And, he was an eloquent writer and speaker. He truly made a difference.
Here are some of his most inspirational quotes:
- The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.
- Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.
- Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.
- Everything we see is a shadow cast by that which we do not see.
And,
- Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable…Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.
Happy Birthday to my sister Mary, because she, too, works hard to help others.
Beautiful, beautiful, Laura. Like you. I am going to use some parts of your Martin Luther King, Jr., piece on the CD that I’m working on for my lovely fairy goddaughter, Selah.
Hugs to you!
Judith
Too bad we have to be on opposite sides of the fence tomorrow, Laura. Go Packers!!!!!!!!!!!
(enjoyed this post). Nancy