Thanks to James N. Watkins for including the following on his Hope & Humor website. Jim is a regular contributor to the SeniorLifestyle web magazine, which I edit. Dealing with change is something all of us face, whether individaully or corporately—from family to organiational. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. championed one of the most significant social movements in the history of the United States through his commitment to change through nonviolent means. The links below refer to additional posts on Jim Watkin's blog.

In April 1963, civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. spelled out a radical strategy to change culture in his book, Why We Can’t Wait. Each participant in the Birmingham protests was required to abide by Dr. King’s “Ten Commandments.”

1. Meditate daily on the teachings and life of Jesus
2. Remember always that the nonviolent movement in Birmingham seeks justice and reconciliation—not victory.
3. Walk and talk in the manner of love, for God is love.
4. Pray daily to be used by God in order that all men might be free.
5. Sacrifice personal wishes in order that all men might be free.
6. Observe with both friend and foe the ordinary rules of courtesy.
7. Seek to perform regular service for others and for the world.
8. Refrain from the violence of fist, tongue, or heart.
9. Strive to be in good spiritual and bodily health.
10. Follow the directions of the movement and of the captain on a demonstration.

Today we celebrate the hope for cultural change that Martin Luther King, Jr. preached in word and deed. Click for my book chapter expanding on “Meditate daily on the teachings and life of Jesus.”

For more on the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, see The King Center website