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Dr. King’s Speech Help Shape My Life

By Robert L. Bankston

It Was All A Dream!

Despite the popular misconceptions, this is not related to Notorious B.I.G. or commemorating 50 years of hip-hop. On April 4, 1968, precisely 55 summers ago, Dr. Martin Luther King was tragically assassinated on the balcony of the Lorraine Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee. In that moment, time seemed to freeze momentarily, and the harsh reality of his loss became undeniable. Both individuals were victims of violence; some things have not changed, but the profound impact of Dr. King’s death cannot be understated.

At the age of 16, while lying in a hospital bed fighting for my life, I had the opportunity to listen to the iconic “I HAVE A DREAM” speech in 1985. My grandfather played Dr. King’s speech, believing it could guide him through life’s challenges, and he hoped it would do the same for me. After realizing the importance of life, I decided to make changes and enlisted in the United States Navy. Along the way, I earned my bachelor’s degree, and over the years, I found inspiration in Dr. King’s speeches, which motivated me to pursue my M.B.A. at 53. I am excited to announce that I will publish my first novel this year, motivated by Dr. King.

Dr. King rose to prominence in an era of limited population despite facing low approval ratings. The impact Dr. King has on 100 Black Men

Inc. is profound and enduring. The effect of the work done by 100 Blackmen of Greater Cleveland Inc. can be highlighted through local contributions & partnerships and nationally 100 Blackmen Inc., with James W. Wade III serving as the National Communications/P.R. Chair and LaRese Purnell as the National Treasurer. The priority objective of 100 Black men is to act as mentors for African American males to enhance.

The notion of accomplishing this task should not be underestimated, as it is more challenging than initially seems. Nevertheless, individuals who possess unwavering determination, like Dr. King can make consistent progress daily. The experience of Dr. Martin Luther King is a constant reminder that the pursuit of progress to the mountain top can be arduous, both physically and mentally, in the present time. “I Have a Dream Speech” was delivered August 28, 1963; however, Dr. King has several nightmares during his journey. In his heart, he realized his limitation prevented him from being in everything to everyone, and his sacrifice to the ones who loved him most was great. In 2024, we must unite and ensure that our impact is as influential as Dr. King’s, even if it means focusing on just one task.

Dr. King’s effect was much more significant than his speeches and movement. Employing his voice to ignite transformation, his true brilliance emerged in his meticulous skill with disciplined silence in calculating his next move. While dreams may not be exclusive, his silent contemplation transformed his aspiration into a tangible reality. A dream serves as a meager manifestation; even though Dr. King may not have reached the mountain top, he helped us reach it.

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