“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
Nothing rings more true than the legacy we leave behind through the lives we touch. It is one thing to amass financial riches, to become successful in your profession, but it matters none if your life was only lived for you. None of us were placed here solely for ourselves and anyone who thinks so is only fooling themselves. Self-gratification and glorification is a self-fulfilling prophecy of a wasted, lonely, and miserable life.
Dr. King’s purpose continues to transcend time and clearly demonstrates how powerful one man’s love for humanity and people’s rights can affect change. Despite any hardships and threats against his or his family’s lives, King went as far as any one person can in serving others. He chose his path and never looked back. He found his calling in life and step-by-step, he forged forward through every imaginable obstacle to make a difference for all. If there is anything to learn from his life, it is that how we live our lives not only makes a difference and is how we will be remembered, but it can possibly be what gives the next person hope, saves their life, or provides them the drive to pursue their dreams. Our life is an example and spark plug for all those we encounter. You can either ignite their flame or blow it out.
Be persistent and consistent in your pursuit. This is the only life you have and you only get one shot. No one expects you to be perfect, to be without flaws, to not make mistakes, or never fall; but what they will be watching is how you get up, recover, and take responsibility for your actions. Be a person of integrity and let your moral compass lead you on the path of righteousness’ sake. If you only change one person’s life for the better you have done your job. “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Peter 4:10)
Today, I challenge everyone to follow Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s spirit and find a way to serve someone else. Not only are you changing their life, but you are also giving your life a greater meaning. Choose each day to be a catalyst – a catalyst of positivity, possibilities, and productivity. Use each day to serve those around you, pay it forward, and watch as your life’s work is solidified in the annals of time.
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
“A man who won’t die for something is not fit to live.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
“An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.