To the editor:
Today we are thinking of the life, words, and non-violent civil rights actions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Usually we walk beside our brothers and sisters in a Beloved Community and gather to share songs, fellowship, and visions of how to become better together.
Cautions concerning Covid have canceled that tradition that began with the Northeast Georgia Peace Council nearly 40 years ago, and has been hosted for several years by Shady Grove Baptist Church. I sure miss that event!
I have been reading an excellent book, “The Radical King,” by Martin Luther King, Jr. edited and introduced by Cornel West. King’s identification with the poor, his opposition to war and nuclear weapons and his crusade against racism and global imperialism are illustrated in 23 selections of his speeches, sermons and letters.
In his Letter from the Birmingham Jail he wrote about being labeled extremist, “Was not Jesus an extremist for love: ‘Love your enemies…’ Amos for justice: ‘let justice roll down like water….’ Paul, …Thomas Jefferson…? So the question is not whether we will be extremists, but what kind of extremist we will be. Will we be extremists for hate or for love? ...”
In the face of institutional and individual hatred, he refused to hate.
Cornel West says that King’s life beckons us to stay strong, be not afraid, and not sell our souls for a market price. I am glad we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, and am glad there are those in our community that are extremists for Love. You know who you are.
Peace,
Joanne Sweeney
Sautee-Nacoochee