“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Quote by Martin Luther King
REFLECTION:
Today, we celebrate the life of Martin Luther King. This quote has extra meaning for me given what occurred at the US Capitol last week. Hate is a very strong, emotionally charged word yet in my opinion, that is what we saw demonstrated by some of the protesters.
While you may not have participated in these demonstrations or even known anyone involved, as people, conflict, differing opinions and views are part of the human condition resulting in separation, division and even hate.. Yet, MLK’s words serve as a reminder that only love can drive out hate (or intense dislike) with someone in your orbit. How would things change with love?
- Identify someone in your sphere that you dislike immensely or even “hate”
- What if you could see them as a person (despite being an adult, their behavior is more childlike) who is really afraid? How does that change your view of them? Can you find compassion for them? Can you send them some loving kindness (even if it is only in your thoughts)?
- How would showing up as your “Best Self” change the relationship? How would love change them?