The actions and words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are as powerful and visionary today as they were at the time of his tragic assassination in 1968. He left an enormous footprint on our world and culture, and we still aspire to reach the mountaintops he articulated so vividly.

I hope that the following selections from some of Dr. King’s amazing speeches can inspire CFPA’s volunteers and supporters like you as we all work together for a better Connecticut in 2023 and far beyond:

For advocates:

• “Never, never be afraid to do what’s right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society’s punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way.”

For volunteers:

• “Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”

For perspective:

• “Only in the darkness can you see the stars.”

For motivation:

• “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But, whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”

I hope you, your friends, and your loved ones have an inspirational Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day this year (and every year)!