On Jan. 18, the nation will once again com- memorate the birthday of Dr. King. The life, faith and great ideas of the freedom warrior should represent a model and guide for our national life working together in “cooperative action.” To what end? To advance justice and social uplift, while at the same time defending and standing up to protect democratic principles – the foundation and bedrock of our democracy.

As we observe the 2021 holiday, the nation is in crisis, griped by racist ideology and af- flicted by white supremacy hate, governed by too many lies and obsessed with inflicting mas- sive suppression on the Black and brown vote. It also is coupled with a lack of presidential leadership performed by an incompetent, racist, self-consuming narcissist.

For our path forward, the disgrace and shaming of our democracy must be redeemed by all good folks united and standing up with one voice.

No one is above the law, and this criminally acting president must be held accountable.

Within the guidance given by Dr. King, there can be found a word, instruction, criticism and direction for all — community leaders, students, clergy, politicians, educators, media, university scholars and writers, business leaders and civil rights

and nonprofit leaders.

I implore everyone to listen and hear afresh the words of Dr. King. If we listen and act on the guidance provided by Dr. King in the quotes cited, we will ad- vance in creating the “beloved community.” What is required is responsible action.

Words of Dr. King:

“I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be.”

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

“Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will.”

“The hottest place in hell is reserved for those who remain neutral in times of great moral conflict.”

“Nonviolence is a powerful and just weapon. Indeed, it is a weapon unique in history which cuts without wounding and en- ables the man who wields it.”

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescap- able network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”

“History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of this period of social transition was not the strident clamor of the bad people, but the appalling silence of the good people.”

REV. TYLER C. MILLNER SR.

Axton