March 4th Blog

During the reading of Dr. King's Letter from Birmingham I was once again blown away from his words. It was amazing to me to read such a beautiful letter that was written in such harsh conditions. Every word that he wrote I could tell was well thought out and backed up with multiple examples. First Dr. King made it known that there is a big difference between just and unjust laws. He explains that when a law is just on its face, but unjust on its application then there is a moral sense of breaking these laws. Just like Isaiah calling out to Israel to flee, Dr. King is calling out to everyone to step up against these unjust laws. Another great point that he had was when people outside the bubble of injustice question the African American people's motives. He makes a point that you have never seen the hardships we have witnessed. How can you tell his son or daughter that your not aloud to go into this restaurant because of the color of your skin? That was a very powerful part, and I agree with him in every way possible. 

Another part that I enjoyed was when Dr. King called out the Southern Churches. Watching "behind the anesthetizing security of the stained-glass windows". This reminded me of Claiborne. Its so ridiculous that the church would explain that we should not step up for justice because it is against the law. We are seen by God as brothers and sisters, however as soon as you have to get your hands dirty people start making excuses. The comparison to a Thermometer and a Thermostat hit the nail on the head. To much does the church only record ideas and principals and talk about justice, while they need to transform injustices and help make our society work for all people. It's ridiculous that not even the churches were stepping up for these injustices. 

If I was locked up in a southern Jail in this time period I would have lost all hope. However, Dr. King expresses that he has hope in that we will change, and he has hope in the church. He talks about extremist and how they stood up for justice. The idea that Dr. King is working so hard for justice as well as partaking in non-violence movements makes him even better. Its amazing that he speaks of Agape love and advocates it so well. Just like Dr. King said, "Justice delayed is Justice denied". He is confident in his words and he knows that soon all his protesting will pay off.