Life's Blueprint

I recently watched a speech by Martin Luther King Jr., and I found it to be quite interesting. King is still known as one of the greatest civil rights leaders in modern history. His words are received with high regard because he empowered people to look fast their quarrels and disagreements and realize there is more to humanity than just trivial things. He wanted people to realize their worth and try to be the best they can be. In this particular speech, he discussed what he called “Life’s Blueprints”. In other words, his idea was that each person should follow a select group of ideals. He wanted people to consider these ideals because it would empower them to feel as though they mattered and that they can positively impact their communities. Their best selves were achievable if they focused on striving to be better. He broke down each point and attempted to persuade others that these ideals should be considered no matter what their goal in life was. His first step was to believe in oneself and know self-worth. The second step was to be determined to achieve excellence in everything. Finally, he wanted people to be committed to beauty, love, and justice. This final step was meant to describe a passion for doing what’s right and caring for the beauty in one another.

To me, Martin Luther King Jr. was a credible figure because he didn’t just make speeches, he stood up and led a revolution along with his supporters. He suffered along with them and so every word he spoke came with a glimmer of hope. Unlike many leaders and speakers, he acted on his words regardless of how much resistance he faced. He also spoke elegantly, professionally, and intelligently. He appealed to people emotionally and made it known that their struggles were also his own. He knew his audience needed hope and wanted words of encouragement from someone with a powerful voice. He didn’t, however, speak as though he was above anyone or more powerful than them. He spoke as though he was just another average person striving to be a quality person of integrity. His credibility was achieved through actions, he shared common goals with audiences, and he emotionally attracted people with this powerful and vivid voice.

Martin Luther King Jr. also had people questioning the status quo and striving people to have faith in themselves while rejecting the negative opinions others had about them. Authenticity and a genuine heart are what made him a force in this world, one that scared those who led oppressive regimes. He didn’t care about what happened to him as long as his words and actions led to the equality his followers deserved. A true leader speaks with integrity where the needs of the many overpower the desires of the few. I believe that he was a very persuasive individual because of his authenticity, integrity, and professionalism. Those are traits and qualities a leader should possess, something that seems lacking in today’s society.