Eighth Grade Second Place Essay
TRI VO
Math/ Science Academy

Untitled

If the United States dreams of equality for all the different races, then try Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s philosophy for equality. Every citizen has the right to be free; not just free of slavery, but free of discrimination. People don’t always think of others as a priority because they set themselves as their main concern. Citizens have a choice in what they do and it’s not always the right decision. It is up to them to take action to do what they think is the right.
People are challenged everyday to help one another. The things which keep people from being able to do this are lack of tolerance and fear. Some people can’t let go of the thought that it may be dangerous to help someone who is different or a stranger. Dr. King gave America a question in Memphis, " If I do not stop to help the sanitation workers, what will happen to them?" The simple act of helping others is a valuable way to be sure everyone’s rights are protected.
Dr. King challenges people to think of others and set him or herself aside when others are in need of help. This mind-set is hard to embrace, but it must be. The people in this country think; they think so much that the negative side of extending and helping can completely put a dark, evil barrier over the positive side. This way of thinking turns Dr. King’s question into, " if I stop to help this man in need, what will happen to me?" Taking this risk once is tough, but King challenges citizens that take it constantly.
Getting the two questions confused with each other is definitely an incorrect way of thinking. Distinguishing one’s self as the top priority is the exact opposite of putting others’ needs ahead of your own. To be honest, there are not enough people who display Dr. King’s spirit. Clearly this way of living is right and it’s difficult at the same time. If citizens meet Dr. King’s challenge, not only are they righteous, but they are also making the nation more of what Dr. King expressed it "ought to be", free of discrimination.
Those who already hold the spirit of Dr. King’s message close are paving the path to helping this country be free of discrimination. Not many people have this courage or belief. Americans must be careful not to fall into the trap of thinking that by following Dr. King’s philosophy is that you will be in the minority or alone in their beliefs. However, if no one starts the journey of non-discrimination, the journey will never be completed. Previous generations have started the long path; the citizens living now have to continue and follow this path for freedom and equality for all. How? Lead by personal example in your everyday life, like Dr. King.