MLK, Jr.

So, I have a confession. Dr. King's general reverence bothers me. I think it's mostly because all the U.S. Presidents share one day now because he has his own holiday. It could also be because every city in the U.S. (it feels like) has a street named after him. There are lots of examples of over-idolization.

Having said that, I actually believe he was a very respectable guy. Bloodless revolutions are definitely my preference. He certainly put his life on the line for what he believed in a way that most won't.

Last January, Matthew Paul Turner, one of my favorite bloggers wrote a good and thought-provoking piece about MLK, Jr. on http://www.jesusneedsnewpr.net/. It can be found here.

Here are my favorite thoughts from that post (this actually hangs on the wall in my office as a reminder):

This document is reprinted in a book called The Words of Martin Luther King, and I thought I’d share the content of the pledge King wrote…

• MEDITATE daily on the teachings and life of Jesus
• REMEMBER always that the nonviolent movement in Birmingham seeks justice and reconciliation—not victory
• WALK and TALK in the manner of love, for God is love.
• PRAY daily to be used by God in order that all men might be free.
• SACRIFICE personal wishes in order that all men might be free.
• OBSERVE with both friend and foe alike the ordinary rules of courtesy
• SEEK to perform regular service for others and for the world
• REFRAIN from the violence of fist, tongue, or heart
• STRIVE to be in good spiritual and bodily health

Today's oatmeal was my favorite, peaches and cream.