When I was in high school a traumatic incident occurred in my life when I defended a fellow student who was wrongly accused. For a long time, I thought this incident was one of the lowest points in my life. The actual story is rather long. Let me just say, while attempting to challenge the inaccurate charge, I was told I would lose enough points on my grade to basically flunk the class. Additionally, I incurred the disgust and wrath of the students in my class for getting them punished for my actions. I potentially disappointed my parents and caused a teacher to consider resigning her career. For years I labeled this event as a time when I made a very bad decision, was obstinate, and caused harm to others as well as myself.
When I compare the sacrifice made by Martin Luther King and the army of civil rights warriors, my actions pale in comparison. My penalty was the potential of earning an F in my government class, not arrested, and thrown in jail. I experienced my fellow classmates reacted with a moment of irritation, not the screaming and cursing of an unrelenting hateful mob. My actions made a teacher feel so damaged she thought of leaving her job. I did not encourage people to take actions that put them at risk of being beaten and attacked by dogs. Not, for one second, did I consider that my actions might lead to my death.
Yes, for a high schooler, it was a horrible experience, and it was traumatic by teen standards. I now consider that point in time to be a defining moment for me. I was willing to put it all on the line in defense of justice, sacrificing my reputation, status, grades, and respect for what I thought was right.
Martin Luther King, Jr. and his many followers gave all they could to right a wrong. Some knew they might even die, and some did. It is a truly wonderful thing when we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and his ultimate sacrifice. Fighting for justice is always a good thing. Sometimes, it’s a risk, sometimes, a sacrifice. Let’s always recognize and deeply appreciate those who put it on the line for justice at any level.