Also, today is meant to celebrate all that he accomplished. It does not mean that he was a saint or even the best human being to walk the planet, but let's not let his faults overshadow his revolutionary changes on a day meant to celebrate peace and justice winning over apathy and hate. I think people who bring his faults up on this day are afraid of someone making such radical changes through peace like he did. It's easier to write off his accomplishments, because it makes us feel better about ourselves. It allows us to feel comfortable in our apathy and lack of motivation to make change. MLK Jr was a man who did not stop when others told him it was impossible. He not only had tremendous amounts of faith in humanity, but he had passion and courage that most people can't even dream to have.
Sometimes I feel pessimistic about the lack of change I see around me. I have so many passionate, idealistic friends. We fight so hard, and I often wonder what difference do we really make? I still hear racist, sexist, and homophobic comments on a pretty regular basis. Yet, on a day like today, I am reminded that one person can make a difference. It's like that JFK quote that is actually hanging on a poster right next to me as I type this (thanks Leslie) "One person can make a difference and every person should try." I miss the younger me who was so involved in social justice issues. I must say I've gotten a lot more selfish as I age, and I think that's because I am still trying to take care of my own mental health before I can help others. I hope that I will one day be able to make change through my writing. Maybe I can use these mental health struggles as a way to connect to people who feel disconnected.
I woke up today and did laundry. It's a pretty simple way to start the day, but it left me feeling optimistic for what I might accomplish today. I didn't put two and two together that it is MLK jr day and I'm feeling optimistic. I don't think that's a coincidence. Today is a day where optimism wins, peace conquers violence, love conquers hate, and justice shines on. Today I will reflect on how I have, can, and will make a difference. I hope you might do the same, friend.
