As we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this year, I feel it is necessary to address some of the very things he would be rallying against today. The year may have changed, but so much has remained the same. He put great value on equal and civil rights, and while certain aspects of some have been overcome, the fight for complete equality is far from over. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a man of character. He persisted in his efforts, and he was not quick to quit. Although doing the right thing was not (and is not) the popular thing to do, that did not get in the way of making a difference and starting a movement. Without crossing that thin political line, I am going to try to convey some ideas to think about in the coming transitions of this country. Many changes are going to be coming our way, and now, more than ever, we need to come together in these times of confusion and curiosity. Whether you recognize it or want to believe it is happening, racism is still a real and ongoing thing in America. It may not look like it did during the days of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., but the truth of the matter is, it still exists. So, what can we do about it? First, understand what it is like being a minority. Imagine being dropped into a country where the language is different, the cultural norms are different, and the political system is different. Second, move beyond the stereotypes these people acquire as a label. These people did not ask for these labels, and often, they are inaccurate on all fronts. Third, get to know them before you pose judgment on them. It never hurts to ask questions in a genuine way, and by doing this, it forms a relationship. Staying ignorant in your ways sets this country back in its efforts to maintain its status as the melting pot of the world. The United States was founded on principles of belonging, new beginnings, and lasting hope. Since stepping out of the little farm town I grew up in and attending college in a city with a diverse population, I have grown to be more aware of the differences, yet I have accepted these differences. Some of the nicest people I have met have been of different ethnic origins, and honestly, I do not see what the big problem is with this. I do not understand the great cultural divide based on color and creed, and I never will. It is the year 2017, and if we cannot move beyond the amount of pigmentation someone has in their skin or what language is considered native, I have little hope for the future and what it holds. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. worked to build people up. The poor meant just as much as the rich. Why does money have to dictate what kind of person we are? This boggles my mind. Yes, money is important from an overall economic standpoint, but there is no room for a money discussion to determine friendships and who we can and cannot talk to. I think our priorities as humans have gotten us into half of the mess we are finding ourselves in today. Being the minister Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was, he more than likely preached from the text of Proverbs 14:31, “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors Him.” I can only imagine that his messages of peace and love on Sundays were heard with listening ears and open hearts. I wish I could say the same thing about today’s messages in churches. We get caught up in our own money troubles and turn a blind eye to those hurting, while we are selfishly hoarding money and scoffing at those who are unable to help themselves. People are people who deserve to be treated as such no matter how many digits are found on their bank statement. Be a cheerful giver, and be thankful when you can help, for one day you may be the grateful receiver. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. did something for this country, and even though he was persecuted for it, it certainly did not deter him from making the lives better for so many. He showed this country what it meant to be accepting of others and how to stand up to those stomping out every dream he ever had, just because of the color of his skin. It is inspiring to see a new generation in Kid President carrying on the messages of hope and prosperity. He is continuing the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and it excites me to see where Kid President’s kindness movement takes this country. Be nice when it is hard; be genuine when it is hard; be heard when it is hard. Life will always have challenges, but we have the opportunity to help each other through these obstacles. It is about time we start working with each other, instead of working against each other. Be friends with someone who is different from you. Help a young and struggling family who lives in your neighborhood. Simply put, be a nice and genuine person.
I have so many things to hope for in the future, and without us working together, they may never happen. I urge you to join me in picking up where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. left off to stand up to the oppressors, fight for what is right, and dream with me. Stay Curious, Kayla ©Inquisitive Perspectives 2017
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