MLK: A Dose of Alphabet Soup for the Soul
52 Words for a Dream: A Reflection on Leadership in Honor of Dr. King
As we approach Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I find myself not writing a book summary or sharing an author’s insights. Instead, I offer something more personal, more reflective—a meditative tribute to the essence of Dr. King’s leadership and legacy.
A year ago, I encouraged others to read Martin Luther King, Jr. on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips. This year, I’ve chosen a different path. Not a synopsis. Not a reflection on another’s words. But rather, a kind of mantra—part poem, part prayer. A slow, intentional reading of 52 words. One for each week of the year. Pairs of words that capture the qualities we saw in Dr. King and the ones we’re invited to embody ourselves.
Read them aloud. Let them settle in your heart. Speak them in the spirit of hope and justice. Let them shape the kind of leader—and human—you aspire to be.
Action and Alliances
Benevolent and Brilliant
Conscientious and Courageous
Daring and Decisive
Engaging and Encouraging
Faith-filled and Fastidious
Gracious and Generous
Humble and Helpful
Inspiring and Innovative
Jesus-like and Judicious
Kind and Keen
Loving and Longing
Moral and Moving
Non-violent and Negotiator
Ordinary and On-target
Persuasive and Persistent
Quotable and Questioning
Remarkable and Reflective
Speaker and Strong
Tenacious and Tough
Uncompromising and Understanding
Visionary and Vibrant
Wise and Well-informed
Xtraordinary and Xpressive
Youthful and Yearning
Zealous and Zenith
May these words inspire us to lead not only with boldness, but with grace. To speak not only with passion, but with purpose. And to remember, always, that the arc of the moral universe bends toward justice—but only when we help it along.
