As I remember and celebrate the great Martin Luther King, Jr. today, one quality especially stands out. His dignity.

What is dignity? It is the state of being worthy of honor or respect. MLK exemplified dignity, even in the most trying of circumstances. He would not lower himself to hate or greed or meanness, no matter what. He knew that he was worthy of respect.

When I watch his speeches, or even look at photos of the man – I can feel his dignity. And it makes me pay attention. It makes me know he is honorable and worthy. It makes me take his message seriously.

What powered his dignity? The force of love. He taught us in so many ways that it is love that connects us – all of us. It is love that keeps us on the higher plane. And it is love that transmutes hate and fear into something better.

Here are four MLK quotes that beautifully express the power of love.

“Love is the only force capable of

transforming an enemy into friend.”

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness:

only light can do that. Hate cannot drive

out hate: only love can do that.”

“Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it.

Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it.

Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.”

“I have decided to stick to love…Hate is

too great a burden to bear.”

We are so fortunate to have had Martin Luther King, Jr. among us. His message still stands:

• Live with dignity. You are worthy.

• Treat others with dignity. They are worthy.

• And power it all with love.

May we all love and be loved, with dignity, today and everyday.