Martin's Words

Today is our national celebration of Martin Luther King Day. Thousands will visit the new Martin Luther King Memorial in Washington, DC, to pay tribute.

It is not enough to say, "We must not wage war." It is necessary to love peace and sacrifice for it. We must concentrate not merely on the negative expulsion of war, but on the positive affirmation of peace.

The memorial opened to great fanfare in 2011, the 48th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, but also to controversy. Many felt that the statue did not resemble King. Many objected to the “Drum Major” quote that, taken out of context, indicated a self regard that those who knew Dr. King and his work believed was antithetical to his memory. Repairs and revisions were made.

There is no question, however, that the wall of quotes surrounding the memorial is a hit with visitors. Few men are as quotable as King, and his words resonate with the best that is in us. 
In honor of the day, here are a few quotes from the wall of the memorial.

Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.

I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.

Also, click here for a link to the digital archives of the King Center, where you can view thousands of pages of letters, speeches, and sermons. Most fascinating are the images of the draft versions of the words that live on today.