This is being written on the evening of April 4th, 2008. Exactly 40 years ago Dr. Martin Luther King was gunned down in Memphis, Tennessee. It was one of those events that makes one remember where they were when they heard the news. I shed tears that night when I heard the news of Dr. King's death because it made me realize that our country was in serious trouble. Dr. King's message inspired people to take a stand, but to do it in the spirit of peace and reconciliation.

It is painful to realize that we haven't learned much since 1968. Our answer to today's problems is still rooted in violence and prejudice. We've even taught our children how to be settle problems with violence. A prime example is the recent news story of third graders plotting to hurt their teacher. These are 8-10 year old children who should be worried about baseball games and summer camps, not plotting a violent act.

Dr. King's legacy is one of peace and of all people working together to accomplish good in this world. That is a vision desperately needed today. God created everyone giving them different abilities and gifts. God expects us to use those gifts to the benefit of all. Dr. King understood that in the 1960's, and we need to get back to the root of understanding it in today's society if there is to be any hope for us.