Presence of a King

40 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated by James Earl Ray at balcony of room 306 of the Lorraine Motel, in Memphis. His life and death raised the consciousness of many Americans on the civil rights movement during the 1960s. Photo from Wikipedia.

His “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 March to Washington continues to resonate in the minds and hearts of many Americans. He has been quoted by candidates for the Oval Office in Washingston.

I was still a young kid in 1968 and didn’t really know who Dr. King was until my college years in UST.

Today, am watching a special feature on Dr. King at the “Today” Show at NBC. Al Roker is talking to Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and other leading African-American leaders about what the 40th anniversary means.

For me, his life and death is a continuing example of how one’s presence can continue to change lines. His is a rare man whose iconic presence inspires men and women, regardless of race, color or creed, to do good for others!

Hi son, Martin Luther King III mentioned on the “Today” Show that his dad was advocating for economic equality. His quoted figures of how many Americans live below the poverty line and how these needs have to be addressed and resolved by three candidates (Obama, Clinton and McCain).

Now, whether any of the candidates translate King’s dream and vision for economic equality after November 2008, remains to be seen and realized.



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