Tajanae Hedges
Professor Kimberly
ENGL 1100
16 January 2015

Few leaders have had such an impact upon the American consciousness as the late civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King was, perhaps, the major influence on the Civil Rights Movement of the late ‘50s and ‘60s. Dr. King once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in the moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Our country is in need of people with character who can bring about change to strengthen our nation and the economy during these difficult times. Primarily, interpreting the sense of self-pride and confidence a majority of people possess explains why their actions when they’re calm and relaxed do not necessarily represent what a man can actually reach. However, what one does during adversity determines who they really are. Making difficult decisions somewhat relates to one’s character; the hardest of choices come at challenging times and these choices not only affect the person, but those around them as well. We will all encounter many hardships throughout our lives, but the decisions we makes during those hardships will follow us all the days of our lives and reveal our true character. This quotes is definitely relevant to American society today. Aside from the proper education, set requirements, and dedication needed to do so, anyone who possesses these virtues that Dr. King has mentioned would be good enough to lead the nation on to the correct path and guide us through both our political and economic troubles. Dr. King’s words have also been inspiring to citizens and/or politicians who were faced with significant challenges during difficult times. For example, Rudy Giuliani, the mayor of New York City during the time of 9/11, fits King’s description of being strong during times of controversy. Giuliani encouraged many Americans to not give up. He gave numerous speeches on both the radio and television, and said, “Tomorrow New York is going to be here. And we’re going to rebuild, and we’re going to be stronger than that we were before… I want New York to be an example to the rest of the country and the rest of the world, that terrorism can’t stop us.” Mayor Giuliani is a prime example of the type of man that Dr. King was referring to. King’s quote indicates that people become inspired or motivated by challenges creating a chain reaction of change. Dr. King’s quote: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in the moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy” is highly inspirational. Controversial times often reveal a person’s true character and strength, indicating a person’s true worth. If one has these qualities, others are often more likely to depend on them. Dr. King’s words are as relevant in 2015 as they were 1963.