This MLK day feels different than others with a growing sense of urgency to drive home the true meaning behind his non violence ideology (hint: it’s not to be a doormat). These were not King’s solely personal views. He was greatly influenced by Richard Gregg and his “Power of Non Violence”, and Gregg was influenced by Gandhi and Gandhi was influenced by Tolstoy and Thoreau. And Thoreau was influenced by Emerson, and so on. Attributing these ideas to one person or one group minimizes the humanity behind it.
Non violence is so powerful because it changes the trajectory of a violent cycle. Violence begets violence, hate begets hate but never forget that love begets love! Violence is the answer for a fearful animal - One who sees no other option. Well, I’m here to say that we have options! Below are some steps I believe will help us all to live a more non violent life:
- Unity! Recognizing that we are all in this life together is critical. Finding that common ground shows we know the differences aren’t a weakness but a strength. All throughout nature; there is strength in diversity.
- Use your Intellect! Quelling a violent state with non violence requires intellect, wit, a curious mind and the ability to think outside the box. Read often, exercise your mind with puzzles, and continue to ask difficult questions.
- Restore your faith in humanity. Get to know people who live differently than you. Seek new friends that are not in your age group, physical abilities, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation. Remember that dehumanizing propaganda is rampant and we have to consciously fight that by reminding ourselves the depth of everyone’s humanity.
- Have Hope. Once we fall into despair, we’ve given up on the possibilities to live in peace. Those possibilities exist and are real! Keep moving with kindness and search for the humanity in everyone you meet. We will make it through! We can live in peace.
Be a cycle breaker. Choose Non Violence through Unity, Intellect and Hope.
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