I read a quote by MLK this morning that I don’t remember ever seeing before. I’m sure I’ve seen it, but it certainly didn’t resonant in the past the way it did with me this morning.
“An Individual has not started living fully until they can rise above the narrow confines of individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of humanity. Every person must decide at some point, whether they will walk in light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness. This is the judgment.
Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”
“Conquering Self-Centeredness” Speech in Montgomery, Alabama (Aug. 11, 1957)
I do lots for others especially friends, family, students, and colleagues, but I am in a privileged position to do more. Taking care of each other is important, and I will think pledge to do more of it this year.
UPDATED: I realized after writing and publishing this post that MLK was 39 when he was assassinated, and he would be 85 if alive today. I’m thankful for taking time today to think about the influence we have on one another. I am especially reminded of the friends, teachers, counselors, colleagues, and family that did for me, so I could pay it forward for others.
Great quote! And I’m going to also try to do more for my community. I do a lot for my students and friends . . . but the community needs help more than anything else right now — so I need to redirect some energy.
I LOVE this quote. Thank you for the reminder.