In Commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

mlk_slideThis Monday is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, which we observe in commemoration of the life and accomplishments of a great American. In tribute to Dr. King, Rabbi Weinreb composed this brief message:

There is a tragedy that we remember this week, not a particularly Jewish one, but a universal tragedy. I speak of the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., whose life and accomplishments we commemorate this coming Monday. I admired him for many reasons, but especially for his gifted eloquence. He knew how to use words to move people. His “Letter from Birmingham Jail” ranks with Lincoln’s speeches and the essays of Emerson and Thoreau in the annals of American literature. He also uttered the following words, which capture the essence of a good teacher and leader in words that are simple and succinct:

“You cannot teach
What you do not know,
And you cannot lead
Where you will not go.”

It is appropriate that we mark this occasion by remembering and appreciating Dr. King’s efforts on behalf of the values of democracy, justice, and freedom.

The words of this author reflect his/her own opinions and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Orthodox Union.