Dr. King dared to dream big. What dream are you chasing this year?
Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a visionary who inspired millions with his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the power of a dream.
You’ve probably heard Dr. King’s iconic I Have a Dream speech today, delivered on August 28, 1963, during the March on Washington. But did you know the original title of his speech was Normalcy, Never Again?
That title feels particularly fitting in today’s world, doesn’t it? In the midst of profound changes and challenges, it’s a powerful reminder that we cannot afford to settle for “normal” when normal isn’t enough.
Here's an interesting fact. Two months before the March on Washington, Dr. King delivered a speech in Detroit using the same “I have a dream” refrain. While preparing for the March, he planned to reuse that speech, but his advisors encouraged him to write something new. What happened next is history.
As Dr. King spoke on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, gospel legend Mahalia Jackson called out to him, urging, “Tell ‘em about the dream, Martin.” In that moment, he set aside his prepared remarks, paused, and began to speak from his heart:
"I still have a dream."
Those words became the foundation for one of the most transformative speeches in US history.
Today, as I reflect on Dr. King’s dream, I can’t help but think of my own dreams—dreams of living boldly, of making an impact, and of helping others do the same.
What about you?
What dreams and goals do you have for this year? Are you taking the steps to make them a reality?
Dr. King’s life reminds us that achieving our dreams starts with courage and action. It’s not about having it all figured out—it’s about deciding to move forward, no matter how small the steps may seem.
As Dr. King so wisely said:
"If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."
So, what’s your next step? One of mine is getting back to sending weekly newsletters. :-)
Here’s to dreaming boldly and moving forward,
Adia
