Joyful Aspen

“…in knowledge, the knowledge of justice;

And in the knowledge of justice, the love of it;

And in that love, the love of all existences…”

The above quote is part of The Druids’ Prayer. This is one of the first things introduced when you begin your training as a Bard. Each line takes on a deeper meaning as you progress through the grades. As we increased our knowledge, we learned about the importance of Justice. We developed a deep regard for upholding that ideal, not just for human beings but ALL beings—animals, plants, and even those unseen. When you reach the point of becoming an Initiated Druid, like myself, you must commit wholeheartedly to supporting the principles of social justice for all beings.

On Martin Luther King Day, I can’t help but reflect on his teachings and how they coincide with those engrained in each Druid. In his “I Have a Dream” speech, Dr. King spoke of an America where people would “not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character,” which echoes the Druidic pursuit of seeing beyond the superficial into the true nature of beings. He also emphasized the importance of creating a society where freedom and justice are available to all, aligning with Druids’ respect for the sanctity of all existences and the natural law of justice that governs unity in the world.

King’s vision was one of harmony and equality, where every individual had the opportunity to live a life of dignity, much like the Druidic ideal that respects the sovereignty of each being and values the interconnectedness of all life. His dream extended beyond eradicating racial injustice to include a brotherhood that could transform opposing forces into one of solidarity. This concept resonates with the Druidic belief in the balance and amity of all existence.

The Druid principle of justice embodies a deep understanding and love of justice that naturally extends to a love for all that exists. This is mirrored in King’s passionate call for civil and economic rights and his insistence on the urgency of action – that justice delayed is justice denied, which reflects a profound commitment not only to the concept of justice itself but to all those affected by its absence.

Dr. King’s legacy challenges us to embody these principles in our lives – to actively seek knowledge of what is just, to cultivate a deep love for justice, and to extend that love in actionable ways toward all existences, recognizing the inherent value of each life.

Ways to Respectfully Observe MLK Day

Observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day respectfully and meaningfully involves a blend of personal reflection, education, and community engagement. Here are some suggestions:

1. Educational Pursuit: Take time to read about Dr. King’s life and his teachings. His “Letter from Birmingham Jail” or his famous “I Have a Dream” speech offers profound insights into his vision and values.
2. Reflective Practice: You might find value in reflecting on Dr. King’s principles of nonviolence and equality. Consider how these principles resonate with your own life and work.
3. Community Involvement: Look for local events commemorating the day. Many communities host marches, lectures, or service projects. Participating in these activities can be a powerful way to connect with others and honor Dr. King’s legacy of community and service.
4. Dialogue and Learning: Engage in conversations about racial justice and equality. You may have a unique platform to facilitate meaningful discussions in your professional or personal circles.
5. Volunteer Service: Dr. King emphasized the importance of serving others. Volunteering your time for causes that align with his ideals of social justice and equality can be a deeply fulfilling way to honor his memory.
6. Cultural Exploration: Attend a cultural event or visit a museum focusing on African American history and culture. This can provide a deeper understanding of the historical context of Dr. King’s life and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
7. Personal Commitment: Reflect on how you can incorporate the ideals of equality, justice, and compassion into your daily life and work. This might involve personal education, advocating for fair practices in your workplace, or supporting relevant causes.

Remember, observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day is as much about looking inward and considering personal actions as it is about external activities. It’s a day for all Americans to reflect on our shared history and to renew our commitment to building a community that embodies the ideals Dr. King stood for.