The Power of Love

This Monday we honor and remember arguably the greatest leader of our national history, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is inspiring to reflect on his philosophies and read his powerful words which are still so prevalent today.

A quote that recently caught my attention was from an article published in Christian Century where Dr. King wrote, “the only way to ultimately change humanity and make for the society that we all long for is to keep love at the center of our lives.” In many of his speeches Dr. King made sure to clarify that the love he was so ardently an advocate of was, “nothing sentimental or basically affectionate, it means understanding redeeming good will for all men, an overflowing love which seeks nothing in return.”

While we often do show love for our family and friends, the kind of love that Dr. King speaks of can be difficult to cultivate especially when our patience is tested daily. For instance, think about the last time you became frustrated or angry with a stranger; it's hard to look back without feeling ashamed or embarrassed. Grocery lines, traffic jams, and our workplaces are often prime examples of these instances when love is completely absent from our minds.

Imagine if this love which, “seeks nothing in return,” was always at the center of our hearts. Compassion, understanding and goodwill towards everyone you encounter even on bad days...seems unrealistic, but it can be easily achieved with practice. Think of Dr. King! He and his comrades were beaten, jailed, called horrible, hurtful names and were still able to look upon their oppressors with love and compassion. He had a deep, experiential understanding that hate has no benefit and that no battles can be won with hatred at heart.

Let's honor Dr. King's life and legacy by continuing to put his philosophies into practice. We can remember to always put others first with love as our daily motivation. As Dr. King states, “life's most urgent question is: what are you doing for others?”