Freedom Singers, Sing!

I've had the great fortune to listen to an inspiring On Being interview with late, great Civil Rights elder, Vincent Harding, in the aftermath of the presidential election last week. He spoke of his experiences as part of the Freedom Movement during 1960's and the role of spiritual communities in making last change (Yay, LTMC!). He offers wisdom and encouragement for America in this time of division and upheaval. He poses the question,

What would America's "best self" be like? *

In LTMC this week, we spoke of volition--one's deepest aspiration--and how wholesome desires can serve as a source of nourishment and happiness in our lives. Might the answers to the above question serve to clarify one's volition? Throughout Vincent Harding's interview, Freedom Songs were interwoven, anthems that focused and united the beloved community in Martin Luther King's era. I've been singing them nonstop this week, and they've been the best practice companions! Here's my favorite one:

Woke Up This Morning

Mr. Harding reminds us that spiritual vision is a vital ingredient for positive social change. He defined spiritual vision as the innate truth that every life is sacred and this value becomes the guiding light for peaceful non-violent action. Spiritual vision was the Freedom Movement's volition under the guidance of Martin Luther King. Mr. Harding posits that spiritual vision is often lacking in present day movements, as is a community that practices and lives compassion, peace and non-violence.

Where there is no vision the people perish." **

Community and spiritual vision were the foundation of the Freedom Singers, their voices called all those embroiled in conflict, including those acting in violent opposition, to recognize the sacredness of life. They sang mindfully--

"I'm walking and talking with my mind stayed on freedom...."

Martin Luther King's freedom movement is a modern day inspiration for our modern age. Alongside my personal North Star of compassion, is compassion's companion--Freedom. Can we practice our volition to live a free and wholesome life, responding to any resistance in ourselves or in others with loving care? Can we sing ourselves and our community back home when they've gone astray? Yes, most certainly, yes.

Inner Constellation Truth #2 speaks to how we are to do this--Energy never dies, it just changes form. A compassionate America is alive today because of the sacrifices and wisdom of visionary elders who walked their talk, sang their songs of commitment and used their imagination and voice to guide themselves and others in the direction of freedom. These Veterans of Hope can serve as role models in embodying peace, happiness and freedom for ourselves, our loved ones and our communities.


*Is America Possible? A Letter to My Young Companions on the Journey of Hope, Vincent Harding
** Proverbs 29:18