What have we done for others?
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others” – Rev Martin Luther King Jr.
Of the many thoughtful and insightful quotes of Dr. King, this straightforward quote has had the most profound effect on me. Even though he uttered this simple phrase at the heart of the Civil Rights Movement, it still remains as valid today as it did then. How can we sit back and do nothing while other human beings suffer? Human suffering any place on God’s green earth is unconscionable.
MLK day means more to me than simply honoring an epically strong and courageous man, it’s a day when we ask ourselves the question, “How have we helped?” The “Dream” was always to ensure that all human beings can live free, happy and prosperous. We have made significant progress in our great country toward this goal but more must be done.
When I witness the tragic suffering of our brothers and sisters in Haiti, and I watch the USA lead the many countries and volunteers desperately trying to respond, I think of the Bible verse from Luke 12: 35…From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.
I think Dr. King would be proud of where we are as a nation. Even though our great nation is in a severe recession, even though many of our own citizens are suffering and out of work, “we the people” are still are working hard to help our fellow humans who have been afflicted with tremendous hardship.
God Bless America and God Bless Knoxville, Tennessee.
