In this exploration of the life and teachings of Martin Luther King Jr., (MLK) we delve into his profound insights on humanity’s place in the universe, our spiritual journey, and how we can find a sense of divine purpose. Drawing from his speeches and writings, we uncover the lesser-known aspects of Dr. King’s wisdom that transcend time and offer guidance for future generations. As we endeavor to understand the depths of his vision, we shall see how it transcends beyond civil rights activism and provides a timeless perspective on our existence within the cosmos.
Our Divine Self and Its Purpose
Our Divine self, or our soul, must find its Divine purpose (telos) and have the courage to embrace and live it. Martin Luther King knew this and boldly lived his purpose without compromise.
“There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe nor politic nor popular, but he must take it because his conscience tells him it is right.” –MLK “A Proper Sense of Priorities,” 1968.
Defining the Soul
- Through a religious or spiritual lens: The soul of a person might be described as the incorporeal essence of an individual, believed to be immortal and transcendent of material existence.
- From a scientific perspective: Professor Robert Temple suggests that our Divine self, or what we call our soul, might actually be our plasma body.
Plasma Science and the Soul
Plasma science is now shedding light on the possibility that our soul may exist as our plasma self. While plasma is invisible to our physical eyes, our spiritual eyes can perceive it. It is our plasma self that often senses the energy of others.
Plasma Science, Exploration of the Soul, and Interconnectedness
Plasma science and the exploration of the soul reveal that everything matters, and we all have significance. Embracing our divine-plasma selves while in our physical forms might lead us to give unconditionally (love), as it connects us to the Creator and unifies us as one. We are unique individuals, yet we are all interconnected and inseparable.
Plasma in the Universe
Space is primarily composed of plasma. In fact, 99% of matter in the known universe is plasma. Derived from the Ancient Greek word πλάσμα (plásma), meaning ‘moldable substance,’ plasma is one of the four fundamental states of matter – the others being solid, liquid, and gas. Plasma is characterized by the presence of a significant number of charged particles, such as ions or electrons.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s Perspective
Martin Luther King Jr. often contemplated our place in the universe and emphasized the importance of equality among humans, especially as we venture into the cosmos. As a visionary civil rights leader, he recognized that our journey into space would require a united front, with people of all races, ethnicities, and backgrounds working together towards a common goal. Dr. King’s teachings urged us to see beyond the boundaries of our own world, to recognize the interconnectedness of humanity, and to strive for a future where we are all equal not only on Earth but also among the stars. His wise words still resonate today as we continue to explore the vast expanse of the universe and seek to create a harmonious existence for all.
NGC 2264, also known as the “Christmas Tree Cluster.” In space
MLK and the Power of Love: A Transformative Force
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. understood the transformative power of love when he said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: Only love can do that.” – MLK (Strength to Love, 1963). This profound statement encapsulates the essence of King’s nonviolent approach to social change and his unwavering belief in the power of love to overcome even the most deeply ingrained hatred and prejudice.
As a champion of civil rights and an advocate for equality, Dr. King recognized that change could not be achieved through violence or anger. Instead, he called upon the power of love to bridge divides, mend broken relationships, and heal the wounds of a fractured society. The power of love, as understood by Dr. King, is not a passive or sentimental emotion but rather a courageous and active force that has the potential to transform individuals and communities.
By embracing love as a guiding principle, Dr. King’s message continues to inspire and challenge us today to confront injustice with compassion, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to building a more just and equitable world.
Snoopy’s Wisdom
One of my favorite cartoons is where Charlie Brown and Snoopy are discussing beliefs and theology, while Charlie writes a book called “Did You Ever Think You Might Be Wrong?” I interpret this to show that it’s not so much about what we believe that ultimately matters, but rather how our faith turns us into loving beings who radiate that love to the world.
“Love is the greatest force in the universe. It is the heartbeat of the moral cosmos. He who loves is a participant in the being of God.” – MLK (From a handwritten letter, mid-1960s)
The Divine Mystery of Love
Brimming with kindness, the divine mystery of the ONE (God) is a love beyond our imagination. This message resonates throughout the history of ancient Israel, where from the beginning of their liberation from slavery, people encountered “a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness” (Exodus 34:6).
“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.” MLK – The Drum Major Instinct, 1968.
Christian Theologian Elizabeth Johnson, states that if the heart of divine mystery is turned in compassion toward the world, then devotion to this God draws persons into the shape of divine communion with all others: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36). To deny one’s connection with the suffering needs of others is to detach oneself from divine communion.[2]
“People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other.” MLK – Speech at Cornell College, 1962.
The Symphony of Space: A Journey Through Celestial Soundscapes
Just like the roaring ocean surf, plasma waves create a rhythmic symphony that, with the right tools, can be heard across the cosmos.
When lightning strikes the ground, the electrical discharge can trigger whistler-mode plasma waves. Some of these waves escape Earth’s atmosphere and bounce along our planet’s magnetic field lines between the north and south poles. The lightning creates a range of frequencies, with higher frequencies traveling faster, resulting in a falling pitch – giving the wave its name: a whistler.
Listen to the Cosmic Melodies of Saturn: Experience the Radio Emissions of the Planet and Its Moon, Enceladus.
John Coltrane’s Later Years: Unlistenable or Unparalleled?
John Coltrane’s music in his later years became unlistenable for many, as he began to explore the outer realms of jazz and ventured into avant-garde territory. Perhaps his soul was evolving to such a point that he was already communicating with the Cosmos and the Universal One, tapping into a stream of consciousness that was simply beyond the comprehension of mere mortals.
As his music grew more complex and ethereal, it started to challenge the traditional notions of jazz and pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in the genre. This made it difficult for some listeners to appreciate his work, but for others, it opened up a whole new world of musical possibilities.
Experience Coltrane’s Evolution
To truly experience the evolution of Coltrane’s sound and spiritual journey, check out John Coltrane’s final album, “Expression.”
This album showcases his transcendental approach to music and serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to pushing the limits of his art form. Give it a listen and decide for yourself whether Coltrane’s later work is unlistenable or simply a glimpse into the mind of a musical genius communing with the Universe.
‘Interstellar Space,’ John Coltrane’s bold duo LP with drummer Rashied Ali, launched its own mini movement in jazz and beyond.MICHAEL OCHS ARCHIVES/GETTY IMAGES
Please check out this YouTube link, by Steven Rowland, on the song Alabama by John Coltrane played behind MLK eulogy recited at the funerals.
My prayer is this: May the inner strength of his soul and the kind heart of MLK live in each one of us. May we have the courage to seek to be Divine as he.
“The important thing is not to think much, but to love much; do, then, whatever most arouses you to love.” – Saint Teresa of Ávil
In today’s world, where divisiveness and discord often seem to take center stage, the wisdom of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the concept of our divine-plasma selves offer a beacon of hope for humanity. By recognizing our interconnectedness and the power of love to transform individuals and societies, we can work together to create a more inclusive, compassionate, and just world for all. As we continue to explore the cosmos, let us also delve deeper into understanding our own souls and the profound connections that bind us, transcending our differences and embracing the unity that lies at the core of our existence.
[1]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_(physics)
[2]Elizabeth A. Johnson, Abounding in Kindness: Writings for the People of God(Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2015), viii.
