“When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the “unalienable Rights” of “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked “insufficient funds.” But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt.”
Martin Luther King, Jr., I Have a Dream, 28 August 1963
Linda hosts One-Liner Wednesday. Check out her blog to see who else is participating this week.
The bank of justice is not bankrupt, but it could use some deposits.
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Some hefty ones indeed.
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It’s like here. Our system was built to control largely decent people. It’s been shredded for too long and so many are losing out and suffering as a result.
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I’ve had that American tunnel vision going on. Maybe this is more of a worldwide problem than I’d thought.
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I hope some day we learn to honor that check in whole. Because what we currently believe is full payment is disgustingly short or what is advertised.
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Absolutely, John.
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Much like the Bible, the Constitution and Declaration have been skewed at the hands of those who are unaware of their own sin, selfish desires, prejudice and willingness to disavow the true meaning of those documents. This country needs to get better and we can only due that through acceptance, love, empathy and a selfless mindset.
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So very well put.
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You’ve shared a wonderful quote. I hope that people realize where they are going wrong.
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There’s so much more to that speech than the quotes we all know.
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I agree.
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