Revering the Reverend

I heard a student jokingly say that the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday is wasted because it comes so early in the term. Since the holiday was last week, I just wanted to mention how important Dr. King’s work was and how he continues to be a contemporary role model.

The Klamath Falls community holds an annual celebration that is powerful and moving. I’ve attend several time, and the Congressional Church is always filled to standing room only.

Millie Craddock, a former member of the OIT who retired a few years ago, told a local news station this week that Dr. King’s legacy is not about color, race or social standing. He was dedicated to bringing people together to better themselves and the nation.

I’d like to share a few of my favorite quotes from Dr. King:

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

“The good neighbor looks beyond the external accidents and discerns those inner qualities that make all men human and, therefore, brothers.”

“We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

“The hope of a secure and livable world lies with disciplined nonconformists who are dedicated to justice, peace and brotherhood.”

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”