Many of the iconic words and images of the Civil Rights Movement are ubiquitous to the point that some think they may be losing their power. There was even a fairly serious proposal for a ten-year moratorium on the "I Have a Dream Speech" several years ago. I am not sure whether that is a good idea or not, but jump the orange cloud for another possibility.
Rather than squelching the reminders that may be overused, how about giving some overdue attention to those that may be less known. Here is one I do not remember ever seeing before.
In an article by Rebecca Onion, Slate has published this list of "Integrated Bus Suggestions" produced by Martin Luther King and Rev. W. J. Lowell. It is from the beginning of integration of the Montgomery, Alabama bus system. It contains:
Be loving enough to absorb evil and understandin enough to turn an enemy into a friend.
If cursed, do not curse back. If pushed, do not push back. If struck, do not strike back, but evidence love and goodwill at all times.
In these days of phony claims of persecution by the rich and powerful and a "stand your ground" mentality, here is a recollection of two Christian pastors proclaiming a true gospel in a real and dangerous context.
Amen.