As I reflect on Martin Luther King (MLK) Day and MLK's legacy, I listened again to some of his famous speeches, including "Why Jesus Called a Man a Fool". I found myself overwhelmed in many ways. I was overwhelmed by the power and persuasiveness of his message, by the moving oration, and by the reminder of the enormity of the inhumanity of injustice. Since the dawn of humanity, the inhumanity of injustice, inequity, racism, bigotry, and hatred has been with us. Wiser, smarter, more persuasive, and more powerful people than I have rallied against it. Therein lies the overwhelmingness. Who am I to think that I can make a difference? What power do I have to help when so many who are stronger than I have not solved this? Could I even make a dent? Where do I begin? Therein is the overwhelmingness laid bare.
Yet, in a special place in some of Dr. King's messages, for me at least, is part of the answer. Facing hostile criticism from many corners and even death threats, Dr. King states, "And I don't mind telling you this morning that sometimes I feel discouraged. …Living every day under the threat of death, I feel discouraged sometimes. Living every day under extensive criticisms…I feel discouraged sometimes. Yes, sometimes I feel discouraged and feel my work's in vain." In this, I am reminded of so many of my other heroes who I consider enormously stronger, wiser, and more courageous than am I—and yet who have had moments of doubt, moments of despair, losses of courage. If they can face down their human foibles, perhaps I can also.
Who am I to think I can help? Perhaps more aptly the question is, "Who am I to not?" I am reminded of the song by Matthew West titled "Do Something." In it, he sings "If not us, then who? If not me and you? Right now. Well, it's time for us to do something." He does not sing "do everything." He sings "do something."
Every little bit helps. This day for MLK Day—to honor his legacy—let us each do something. Let us each do our part to make a dent. Let us each take one step that collectively will help move us forward. Exhibit one act of kindness. Question one of one's own beliefs that may be holding back others. Make one donation to a civil rights organization, or a scholarship fund for students from underserved and underrepresented groups. Extend one hand in forgiveness to a colleague. Find one small opportunity to do good.
Dr. King famously said, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice." We can each do one step to move us along the arc. Let us take another step.
In good spirit,
David B. Allison, Ph.D.
Dean, Distinguished Professor, and Provost Professor
