Jan 24, 2022
On this week’s episode I reflect on
the legacy of Sidney Poitier and Martin Luther King, Jr. The gifted
actor, director and activist, Sidney Poitier died on January 6th,
2022. The following week we honored MLK Day, a hard-fought national
holiday to pay tribute to the leader of the Civil Rights
Movement.
Both these men had such a significant impact on me, from early
childhood, through my formative years in the 60s and 70s. These 2
incredible men of courage and leadership each found their unique
way to access their gifts, live in integrity, and challenge the
humiliating, oppressive ways Black people in the United States are
treated. Both these men were articulate, dignified and implemented
mindful ways to reach into the heart and conscience of Americans,
particularly white Americans. It is no surprise that they knew each
other, supported each other and had a great respect for one
another.
The motto of MLK Day is “Remember, Celebrate, Act” and
“A Day On, Not a Day Off!”
Let’s do what we can throughout the year to honor these men and the
truth they stood for. Don’t let someone pull you so low as to hate
them. Stand into your values in times of challenge. Acknowledge how
easy it would be to react in bitterness, yet seek to transform the
suffering into a creative force. Channel your anger to positive.
Forgive. Keep loving. Live into the redemptive power of love. Enjoy
the podcast!
Links:
Democracy Now -
1/17/2005