It may be hard to believe that widespread change can be made without drastic measures. But that’s exactly what some of the world’s most renowned leaders have accomplished—Nelson Mandela, Gandhi, Dalai Lama, and of course, Martin Luther King Jr. From his studies of Gandhi and his drive to see change in the world, Martin Luther King Jr. worked for equality through peaceful protests.
Gandhi’s tradition of nonviolence is known in Indian religions as “ahimsa.” The Sanskrit term loosely means, “do not injure.” So the principle of ahimsa has a broad meaning and can be applied to most all areas of life. Helping his contemporaries understand how the concept could apply to the fight for equality, Martin Luther King Jr. developed “six principles of nonviolence” in his book Stride Towards Freedom:
- Nonviolence is a way of life for courageous people.
- Nonviolence seeks to win friendship and understanding.
- Nonviolence seeks to defeat injustice, not people.
- Nonviolence holds that suffering can educate and transform.
- Nonviolence chooses love instead of hate.
- Nonviolence believes that the universe is on the side of justice.
So today, to honor Martin Luther King Jr., as well as all of those who strived to make change through peace and nonviolence, think about how you can contribute. It can be as simple as not gossiping, not criticizing someone, or just holding the door for someone behind you instead of rushing through it. If an action you’re about to take or a word you’re about to say will cause harm, maybe just for today, don’t.
via:http://blog.couponcactus.com/holidays/martin-luther-king-day/martin-luther-king-jr-day-choose-love/
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