Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.

A Day of Compassion

The Holiday, or MLK Day as many call it, is an oft-misunderstood holiday. To view MLK Day as just a day for African Americans to celebrate a cultural hero is to miss the point entirely.

King fought for much more than racial equality for an underprivileged few. King fought for universal ideals. He fought for human equality.He fought for unity among all peoples. For an end to poverty. For peace in a warring world. For love to overcome hate.

MLK Day is a day to reflect on these universal themes. Here are some basic tenants of King’s message that you can use to spark a conversation with your children or to pass along your personal values or maybe even to motivate your family to serve your community in some positive way.

For more information on the holiday or King, himself, visit mlkonline.net and thekingcenter.com.

Equality and Compassion
The tried and true golden rule—treat others as you want to be treated. Whether it’s an annoying little brother or the angry woman at the checkout counter or the cantankerous man down the street, why is it important to treat others as we would want to be treated?

Nonviolence
Talk about conflict resolution. What are some healthy ways to deal with anger?

Elimination of Poverty
Talk about the families in other parts of the world and right here in the Chattahoochee Valley who struggle to keep food on the table and a roof overhead. How might those people
be helped?

Courage
Discuss the importance of standing up for what you believe. What are some ways to live according to your family’s values even when others might scoff?

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