He taught us the importance of loving our neighbors as ourselves. But what if you can’t truly love others if you don’t first love yourself?

So what do you see? Do you see wrinkles, an aging person, and one who has failed more than succeeded? Do you see more of what you should have done versus what you can do? Do you see a failed mom because her children didn’t turn out a certain way?

But here’s the truth: your reflection says a lot about how you judge yourself and how you judge others. Prejudice doesn’t come from knowledge, but from assumptions.

Most of the time, those assumptions are wrong because we only see the surface-level markings and not the compassion in one’s heart.

Dr. King believed that each of us was created in the image of God as stated in the Bible, and that we should love and treat each other equally with respect and dignity, regardless of race or background. His teachings remind us that love knows no bounds, and it begins with who you see in the mirror.

In his famous “I Have a Dream” speech delivered during the historic March on Washington in 1963, Dr. King spoke of his dream for a future where people are not judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

This vision is reflected in Galatians 3:28.

28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28)

It’s time that we build bridges, and it starts with you.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Build bridges!

So today, I challenge you to look at your reflection. Go deeper than the quick reaction of “I’ve got all the friends.” But how much does your heart really see the person in front of you? How much do you see yourself?

To honor Dr. King’s legacy of love, let’s start by looking inward, going beyond the reflections of what we lack, and truly appreciating the reflection of our gifts.

1. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you offer to others. Instead of focusing on your perceived failures, acknowledge your past accomplishments and the strengths you possess. Embrace your unique qualities and appreciate the person you are today.

2. Connect with others authentically: Take the time to truly listen and understand the people around you. Instead of making assumptions based on appearances or first impressions, strive to see beyond the surface-level. Show empathy and look for the compassion in others’ hearts, just as Dr. King did.

3. Challenge your biases: We all have unconscious biases that influence our perceptions of ourselves and others. Take a moment to reflect on your own biases and question their validity. Educate yourself about different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences to gain a broader understanding of humanity’s diversity. Remember, judgment based on assumptions often leads to misunderstandings and missed opportunities for connection.

Dr. King’s teachings on love and equality continue to guide us today. As we look within ourselves and challenge our biases, we can create a world where reflection is no longer clouded by judgment but illuminated by love and respect.

One of the things Dr. King said, “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Are you willing to build bridges and go beyond the failures of humanity?

Artist Bono once said, “I’ve always believed love to be the highest frequency. That’s all Dr. King ever talked about.” In 1984, he and his band U2 released the song “Pride (In the Name of Love)” to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. The song became a powerful anthem for equality and justice, reminding us of the ongoing fight for love and compassion in the world.

So, today, as you reflect on Dr. King’s teachings of love, equality, respect, and peace, look in the mirror and challenge yourself to embrace unconditional love for yourself so that you may truly love your neighbors as yourself.

“The time is always right to do what is right.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Note: “In the Name of Love” is a song by U2 from their 1984 album “The Unforgettable Fire.” The song was written by Bono to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his fight for equality and justice.

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“