Sitting in Temple Beth-El and listening to the stories of congregants who made a difference during the civil rights movement was a moving experience. The docents identified that only approximately 10% were supportive of the movement; yet, today, those stories are being told and promote a coalition of support and knowledge. Through an activity that divided us into smaller groups to analyze personalized stories, I was assigned to Rabbi Milton Grafman. His story was one of complexity, but deep down, his advocacy was promoted from a place of love. This entire trip has revolved around the idea and ideals of love, and regardless of one’s religion, race, or sex, love is a concept that all can understand.
Mr. Charles Mauldin, our guest speaker at the Temple Beth-El, was not a parishioner but a marcher in the two central marches within Selma and eventually the third from Selma to Montgomery. He was so soft-spoken yet projected passion and pride for his activism. He also promoted the idea of love, although I would not say that was his word choice; it is more of my interpretation. The idea of treating your neighbor as you would want to be treated is a concept that you do not have to be religious to understand and follow. Mr. Mauldin discussed at length how the idea of nonviolent marching was the plan, and if one could not remain nonviolent, there would be a different role within the movement. It presented a tactic that was not just in opposition to what the oppressor wanted, but it also provided a clear contrast between the rights and wrongs of the situation even 60 years later. No matter how much the opposer provokes, if you hold fast to your beliefs and what is right, good shall overcome.
Each of these experiences of the day was different. Yet, they tie together the idea that if I continue to incorporate the concepts of love, empathy, compassion, and sympathy thematically within all lessons, it will create a stronger correlation of acceptance for all. As much as I want every student to master and grow within the curriculum, I also want them to be change-makers and empathetic citizens. Therefore, rooting conversations in love is a great place to start.