40 years ago today

[zephre]

We all lost a great man and a great fighter for social justice.

If you want to be important-wonderful. If you want to be recognized-wonderful. If you want to be great-wonderful. But recognize that he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. That's a new definition of greatness

Comments

[glenmarshall]

By the time of King's death he had lost some control of the movement. In particular, a less patient mood had entered the picture. This started with such groups as the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in the early 19060s and devolved to groups like the Black Panthers, Black Muslims, and other radical factions. This was unfortunate.

After his death there was no other leader of his stature to come forward and help focus. I honestly believe this lead to a 10-20 year -- some may say more -- delay in realizing his Dream.

However, the overall message of tolerance for diversity seems to have taken root for those who are now entering adulthood.

As a member of the last segregated class (1964) of my high school in Decatur, GA, I am happy to have seen the changes.

[venturous1]

Thank you for this moving speech. It opened my heart.