Inspired
It’s so easy to copy and paste a quote on social media, but I want everyone to deeply think about why it is they are doing this, taking it one step further to add a follow-up note to what that quote means to them personally – how they’re applying it to their own life.
I like to think I do a decent job of presenting myself, conveying intelligence about my philosophy on life, love and my ongoing pursuit of happiness because it’s never ending. I often seek out quotes to illustrate my passion, adding my own words of encouragement and at times – photos, too.
I often quote from people I believe in, who have journeyed far so I can be the total me, verbal and ardent – forever unapologetic for the latter. Monday presented a golden opportunity for me to share a few of my favorites by Martin Luther King, Jr. So much of what he said was moving, inspiring me to be a better person.
It never fails on the day we celebrate his legacy and commitment to injustice, the naysayers, haters come out, negating his contributions. What they fail to realize is he was human, too – full of flaws and imperfections. He carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, understandably so.
Point out his weaknesses if you must (be prepared to evaluate your own, first), but I choose to trust all that is positive. He was instrumental and a force, and I am proud to be one of the many honoring his legacy. I thank you for these words, Dr. King, for they keep me moving forward – "If you can’t fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."
Yesterday was Inauguration Day too, and I’m happy to say I voted for the right guy, that’s not to say I’m always happy with his choices, but the right guy! I have no regrets. You can like or dislike President Obama, for that's your prerogative. These words you must hear and believe... To not do so, makes you part of the problem, and it will definitely keep America from thriving. It’s all or none when it comes to equality.
"It is now our generation’s task to carry on what those pioneers began. For our journey is not complete until our wives, our mothers, and daughters can earn a living equal to their efforts. Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law – for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well. Our journey is not complete until no citizen is forced to wait for hours to exercise the right to vote. Our journey is not complete until we find a better way to welcome the striving, hopeful immigrants who still see America as a land of opportunity; until bright young students and engineers are enlisted in our workforce rather than expelled from our country. Our journey is not complete until all our children, from the streets of Detroit to the hills of Appalachia to the quiet lanes of Newtown, know that they are cared for, and cherished, and always safe from harm." - Barack Obama (2nd Inauguration Address)
Now’s the time to be fearless. We are a nation of many – one great, big group of positives and negatives because no one is perfect. And, for those Debbie Downers, the finger goes both ways, so stop pointing. Enough with using archaic scripts, manipulative tongues and self-righteous egos to bully people you often view inferior. We won’t take it anymore because we are stronger, louder, and together a force to be reckoned with, so you won’t be patronizing us anymore. We all matter, and must work for the greater good of all humanity.
I’m more inspired than ever, appreciating the President’s inauguration speech. He’ll be quoted forever.
Listen to yourself. Hear what you say. Your words are power, they are fierce and, yes, they can be the complete opposite too, leading to cruelty and disdain. Allow others to hear a voice of clarity and see a life of respect so you’ll be worth remembering. They’ll quote your spirit, love, happiness and perseverance. And when you speak kindly, truly and honestly, you in turn will become famous in your own right.
Quote someone today who inspired you. It could be your best friend, a teacher, mentor, or a family member. Remember their words because it’s you who will give them new meaning. All of us have an opportunity to live forever and be immortalized with a simple quotation.
I spent my Monday afternoon walking on one of the local trails close to my home. My walking meditation allowed me to reflect more on the truer meaning of some wonderful quotes, and how I can use them to reshape and enhance my own life. Do the same, friends – do the same, finding your joy. Always with good intentions. – paerki
