The Fierce Urgency of Now

About the Author

• Kathryn Fenstermaker

• Corporate Communications Leader

Kathryn Fenstermaker serves C. H. Fenstermaker & Associates as Corporate Communications Leader, working to support… (Read More)

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 1963 speech, dubbed the “I have a dream speech,” reveals unto us both struggle and hope. Although there are many famous lines, tucked away in his speech are some valuable words that capture my attention. He said, “We have come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of Now. There is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism.” This is so powerful, relevant, and worthy of further examination.

Each day, we have the option of settling for mediocrity; we have the option of complacency and acceptance for ‘the way things are.’ This can lead us to a sedentary existence, one in which we leave behind no evidence that we were even here. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., on the contrary, is a marvelous example of how each of us can make an impact. He made a decision to be extraordinary, to be a forward thinker, and to strive for high ideals.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke with passion and led with his heart. He drew crowds as he spoke with vigor about the desire for all to acknowledge and fully realize our founders’ creed, that “all men are created equal.” This message is reassurance that each and every one of us is born with the potential for excellence. We are all born with the capability to leave our mark, to make a difference, to lead with our heart and communicate our passion and vision for something better than the status quo.

Courageous are those who choose to ignite — to light up the sky with the fierce urgency of Now. I am suggesting that we all take charge of the opportunity and destiny that has been afforded us. Let’s make sure that we are using every moment with which we are blessed to reject the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Instead, I propose that we wake up, make a difference and be of value to those around us so that we may have influence on positive change. In this way, we can honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. not only on the third Monday of January, but every day.