Iam more aware of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day this year than I have been in years past. Perhaps it's the result of living in the Chicago area where racial tensions have been high and in the news. Let alone the numerous racially charged police stories we have experienced throughout our nation. As an approaching-middled-aged-white-male, I NEED this day as a reality check. In light of this I offer these resources that continue to help me face and curve my own expressions of racism.
Letter from the Birmingham Jail
Read Gracism
I Have a Dream Speech
Create space by . . .
Receive
Choose one of the items above and receive what it offers. Truly listen to the words that have literally shaped a nation.
Reflect
As you receive, reflect on what is going through your heart and mind? What feelings do you notice? What is driving those feelings and thoughts?
Respond
Do something with your new found insights. Do you need to apologize to someone? Do you need to write a letter? Join a peaceful protest? Ask someone of another race over for dinner or out for coffee for a real conversation? Do something.