I attended an event in Phoenix last year, on this day. The cabdriver that picked us up wore a hat, and was a bit chatty. He was slight and wiry in frame, and maybe 55 years old. Once we got in the cab, we made small talk about the weather and the fact that it was a holiday. I don't know why they make such a big deal about this guy (Martin Luther King Jr.), all he ever did was have a dream. I about fell over. "What? How you could you say such a thing? He is one of the great thinkers and leaders of this century, and a tireless crusader for human rights. He spoke out, and worked hard against injustice of every kind." I wanted to say.
Martin Luther King Jr. said, "Life's most persistent question is, What are you doing for others?"
It can be overwhelming to see the homeless building in numbers under the freeway, and the jobless rate increasing, the richer getting richer. How can I make a difference in the well of need that exists in the world? Apathy, and a state of denial seem an easier place to go.
Learning to get along with each other is the order for today, seems appropriate on this holiday. A day, where people can get their concerns heard and work towards change. The salon is closed. We will work with a consulting group to try and work out our issues. I've never worked in a salon where issues were prevalent enough to warrant outside help.
To get along seems simple, but I'm a person who avoids conflict usually. Silence is not always better. Complacency is worse. I resist and despise any rah rah work that will inspire change for a day. Will lasting change be the result? It's up to each of us. The one thing I can do is to become part of the solution. I will make sure my voice is heard today, and speak up for those who can't.
Thank you Martin for your efforts, and giving your life to a just cause, your efforts were not in vain.