At first, he was a reluctant civil rights leader.

He had (very legitimate) fears: personal safety, the safety of his family…

But he served anyway.

It only took one person to lead a nation and provide inspiration for decades thereafter.

But what can I do? You might ask.

When you hear hate, speak up.

When you see injustice, take action.

When it’s election time, vote.

Thank you, Martin Luther King, Jr., for your leadership.*

*from Light Watkins