Forward-Thinking Americans

The Letter from Birmingham Jail, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote:



"Frankly I have never yet engaged in a direct action movement that was "well timed," according to the timetable of those who have not suffered unduly. For years now I have heard the word "Wait!" It rings in the ear of every Negro with a piercing familiarity. This "wait" has almost always meant "never." We must come to see with the distinguished jurist of yesterday that "justice too long delayed is justice denied."



In 1963, these words and the accompanying actions by thousands of civil rights pioneers made our nation hopeful in some quarters, uncomfortable in others, and downright scared in others. Everyday folks of all races wondered where these protests would lead.



Today, in a time in which major presidential contenders are representative of different races, genders, and backgrounds, we certainly see progress from the time of Dr. King's letters. Such progress can make us comfortable, and if we aren't careful, that level of comfort with the status quo can hide injustice and unfairness in our midst. It can stifle a sense of urgency on the part of forward-thinking Americans.



I can only hope we avoid a comfort level that makes us forget we are all equal and that our actions can either promote or hinder fairness toward others. When we learn to give, as they have done so generously, I hope it is with an open mind about the experiences and priorities of others, especially those of other races and cultures.



One has to understand history to understand King's sense of urgency in 1963. However, one needs only to open eyes widely in our own community to understand that there is still a need for the justice and action that King called for.