If [we] fail to act . . . 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. Our generation will have to repent not only for the acts and words of the children of darkness but also for the fears and apathy of the children of light.
—Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” April 16, 1963
Earful of Cider 
He was a brilliant speaker and an inspiration still. Thanks Sarah.
He was, indeed. And in deed as well . . .
“…the appalling silence of the good people.”
That. This bit of speech covers everything from Guantanamo Bay to the financial crisis.
And here almost fifty years ago, and here in the past the future is foretold.
I hope our children are better at this than we are.
Thank you for that choosing that quote, Sarah.
It’s my favorite.
My next favorite is: “Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.” (Strength to Love, 1963)
When I was in my 20’s I asked my older brother if he had the opportunity to have lunch with any famous person, living or dead, who would it be. He answered before I had even finished the question. “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” His tone implied there was no other suitable response.
I was so ashamed. My answer was Madonna.
Please, please let my children be better.
I think I’d choose Mark Twain . . . He’s more my moral speed. . .
Definitely one of the good guys.
This is what I thinking about when I thought again about my confrontation with the woman at the grocery store. I’ve let this kind of thing slide in my presence for far too long.
Me, too. I may have to bite my lip at work, but after hours . . .