The King and I’d like to begin with one of the most remarkable quotes ever spoken by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I live by this quote daily, as it shows that love is the ultimate driving force of freedom. “I have decided to stick to love. Hate is too great a burden to bear” (Martin Luther King, Jr., 1966). This is a quote that simply defines and binds a relationship based upon honesty, freedom of speech, respect, kindness, value, loyalty, and advancement. The connotation of this quote is based on the need to express forgiveness, to look beyond insignificance, and to move fluidly toward new ideas, projects, and relationships that speak volumes and create stepping stones toward greatness. In a sense, this quote speaks to the necessity of bridging gaps, making new connections, and loving others despite. Let me say that it is more simplistic to offer love than to sit in rotten disparity, soaking up hatred, bitterness, and jealousy.

Those are words that promote harm and stagnation, and often lead to nowhere. Love is such a significant word, as it brings together new innovations, family, friends, partners, and community members. It’s not about doing things on your own, but about having a helping hand to guide you to the next level. It is about compassionate words and actions that propel you to your destiny. Love is not merely a word, but showing gracious actions toward others. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. demonstrated words of encouragement that promoted others toward monumental accomplishments. His speeches had a phenomenal impact on me and those around me.

They spoke life, and gave me the confidence to pursue abundant opportunities and success. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. paved the way for an insurmountable amount of unity among everyone. His quotes definitely were the catalyst for change and inspiration. This is a man who has had a significant impact on effective decision-making and growth in his own and others’ lives. His words spoke honesty, togetherness, understanding, strength, and elimination of strife. He has made a significant impact on humanity by fighting for justice, equality, and freedom.

With his historic words of wisdom, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was the epitome of a strong African American male figure who held significant societal influence and mirrored the importance of activism, family, scholarship, education, humanity, and peace. We, as a peculiar people, should strive to be the best we can each day. We should carry the torch of success, exemplify advancement and success, love others, and never forget to reach back for those who are striving toward success. Leave no man or woman behind. Looking at today’s world, the steps that are essential to keep his dream alive and move closer to his goals are to keep going, strive for better, live in abundance, remain healthy, and reflect on the prosperity of our past ancestors, and the honor they have worked diligently to take us to center stage. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. has paved the way for unity, love, and growth.

We must begin with an inward view of ourselves and be willing to make a change for the better. Halt looking in the rearview mirror, and move toward success and freedom. Success and freedom are found in lending a helping hand. Promote love and eliminate hate.