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Martin dreamed of equality; a standard by which all men were viewed the same. King dreamed that People would see one another as brothers and sisters united by the same dream. Maybe one day we would all learn to respect each other. Oh how he hoped with and unrelenting faith in the heart and goodwill of people. His vision spanned to a horizon where opportunity overcame prejudice; to a time when selfishness was replaced with humbleness. He saw a place where man would let his better nature rule and live by the golden rule of "treating others as they so wished to be treated". It was his vision that America would rise to its full potential; becoming a land where every man, woman, boy, and girl would be liberated and enabled to dream. Every American would be afforded every opportunity to realize their own dream without oppression. He saw the vast beauty of America's landscape, a land of idyllic beauty and diversity encompassing treasures beyond realization.

King and others who fought for the same beliefs came to know that, before a gem could radiate the zenith of its beauty oft times it must first be polished. Its more fact to fiction in the idea that a bountiful harvest begins with the planting of a seed. Each and every person carrying a dream must first believe that the potential to realize it and make a change lies within them.

Realization of the dreams begins with every person challenging their own ways of thinking and setting aside personal prejudice. If every man and woman would absolve to respect one another despite personal hang-ups we would be one step closer. If only I could see just a little of you in me or in the next man or woman then I would be a little less likely to trod your dreams under my feet. Overcoming self is a daily struggle a struggle that must be won everyday. Selfishness is the very root of all hatred, degradation, separation, and miscommunication. Prejudice stems from the budding blooms of pride and ignorance. Discrimination is the full blown flower of self affinity.

I discriminate because I believe in the status quo. I believe that things should remain the same and I fear change. Fear overwhelms my feelings. Self pride drives my emotions. I dislike because I can and I destroy because I choose to. Ignorance has armored my heart hardening it beyond belief.

These are the things that King sought to destroy. We can keep the dream by challenging ourselves and by choosing to be different. One person can not change the whole world but one person can change himself or herself. In effect that change can send a ripple effect that can begin to change the hearts of those who inhabit this beautiful continent.
There can not be sunshine without rain. No one can realize the fullness of joy without pain.
A dream can not be realized until one awakes from his or her sleeping stupor and takes action.

Learn more about this author, Renae Richardson.
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