What We Can Learn From MLK On How To Shape Change

Born January 15, 1929, Baptist minister Martin Luther King, Jr., spent most of his life as a social activist in the civil rights movement. He was a key player that helped to change legislation, including the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. Most importantly, he was known for his commitment to using nonviolent social justice strategies and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his efforts.

What MLK taught us about resilience
Many of us learned about Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech in history class. But what you may not know is that the speech was highly improvised. Sometimes speaking from the heart is all people need to hear to open their hearts. And did you know that when MLK led the Montgomery bus boycott, protesting segregation on the public transit systems, he was stabbed? MLK found a way to overcome every obstacle he faced to fight for what he believed in. And that’s a valuable lesson that continues to inspire us daily.

Every year, we remember Martin Luther King, Jr. on the third Monday of January. And although we’ve come a long way thanks to his efforts, there’s still so much we can do to keep his legacy for change alive.

How can you shape change?
Consider this MLK quote:

“The time is always right to do what is right.”

There’s always a way to overcome obstacles that come your way, you just have to find the path. One of the ways you can do this is by working together with your community. Find nonprofits and organizations that are working on causes that matter to you and see how you can help. See an injustice? Don’t be afraid to speak up for what’s right. And be a voice for those whose voices are silenced. As MLK said, “Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?’”

Would you want to learn more ways to become active in shaping a better tomorrow? Let us know in a comment below or on our social media @Shapermint!