Leadership

An Address at Cornell College (excerpt) by Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. : Reading and Meditation

May 29, 2020  • Executive Leadership Seminars Department

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An Address at Cornell College (excerpt), Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Meditation

The world feels loud when voices are raised in a struggle to be heard. In times when it feels like we’re talking at each other more than to each other, frustrations can mount and divisions between us become more entrenched. Dr. King’s assessment of humankind draws a clear progression from separation to hatred as both physical and experiential distance creates a climate of miscommunication, misunderstanding, and fear. According to Dr. King, you cannot have one without the other–hatred is directly linked to our separation and lack of opportunity for dialogue and understanding. 

It takes bravery to challenge your own understanding, and humility to seek new knowledge when you find opportunity for growth. What does it take to examine your own fears? How can you open yourself to channels of communication, learning, and new understanding? How can you bring together people in your life who may otherwise be separated? How can you start healing hatred and fear by having hard conversations at your own kitchen table? 

Brianna Curran, Washington, DC

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