I think - unlike gargoyle!

And what I think is that sometimes, very rarely, someone comes along who acts as an inspiration to those who have lost hope.

When someone has the ability to instill faith in peoples hearts, their words continue to do so after their death.

Martin Luther King jr wasn't God, and may or may not be a saint, but when people hear his name mentioned, or even better, hear his voice, they feel inspired and their faith is renewed.

I am moved when I listen to his words, and my faith in humanity and the possibility of change is reaffirmed. That is why I express feelings of profound respect and gratitude towards him.

When you are thinking about the injustices of the world, it is very easy to want to switch off and look elsewhere (selfish denial is usually how this manifests).

But when you think about The people on those marches, their sense of hopelessness, and his ability to turn that around - constructively - you feel a resurgence of youthful passion and optimism that things can change.

He, in his own words, "dramatized" the issue. He did it for a reason, and achieved more than just Black suffrage in the process. He also got through to the hearts and minds of black and white people in a way that noone else (with the possible exception of Bob Marley) has managed to since.

The message in both cases was clear to all who opened their ears long enough to hear him. It was, you don't have to be afraid, colour differences (and any other differences) mean nothing, and if there are enough of you, with enough faith, you will create a new day, and yesterday will become a bad memory.

Are you afraid to be inspired? Well at least recognize who inspired you when you were young.

lox