Martin Luther King Jr. Speeches

When we think of famous MLK Speeches "I have a dream" immediately comes to mind. However, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. an influential speaker, reverend, theologian and civil rights leader wrote an eloquent speech called "The Drum Major Instinct". On February 4, 1968 at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. delivered "The Drum Major Instinct" Speech. The drum major position is one of leadership, distinction, instruction, and group representation. It is a position often revered by those in bands and the military. The Drum Major is usually positioned as the head figure whom everyone notices from the front lines as distinct and powerful. The Drum Major is responsible for providing commands either verbally, through hand gestures, or with whistle commands directing a band to march, what music to play and what time to keep. The attire of the drum major is usually immaculate and more ornamate than the rest of the band. It is a representation of the flawless efforts of precise and eloquent movements that a person of this stature must possess. The drum major is first in the public eye and this can become an energy boost for a person's self image.

Dr. King's speech discusses where the desires for recognition and importance originate. It is from the drum major instinct where the foundation of the ego's need for validation is born. Passion and desire are most certainly the main ingredients that drive an individual to want to succeed. Success is often a great accomplishment especially when it is brought on by praise, recognition and a wealth of accolades. Some may argue that achieving one's dreams is not about gaining someone's approval or acknowledgement. However, truthfully a part of us all wants to gain acceptance and a little admiration from our peers. The human ego loves to shine in all its glory and greatness for at our best we are all loved and appreciated.

The biblical point of reference Reverend King uses in the speech is taken from St. Mark and begins with chapter 10 verse 35 which speaks of James and John sons of Zebedee who want to be seated at the right and left hand of Jesus. James and John have big aspirations of becoming kings and are waiting for an opportunity for it to become a reality. The two sons may appear as neurotic and self absorbed for wanting to be in direct association with Jesus. However, in today's society this can be an entourage, right hand man or another member of a crew of individuals who are usually standing in the shadows of some powerful or prestigious person. The spotlight is a place where alluring titles of interest are and where being the center of attention can seem very beneficial. The struggle to become more noticeable can be dangerous if the person has no limit in how far within or beyond character to go to gain prestigiousness.

The drum major instinct can cause an individual to become overly self centered. If a person develops an elitist attitude then excluding people who are not of the same socioeconomic class or educational level can become the norm. The daily interaction of individuals reveals the story of the have and have not's and the cultural exclusion that exists in American society. We are fighting not only in foreign lands but within ourselves to think outside of the box of self ambition alone. The drum major instinct is not always unhealthy to possess but like most things too much of anything is never a good thing. Dr. King's speech challenges us to use our drum major instincts to uplift and inspire others to create justice by living for the commitment of truth and love for all mankind.

If we take a look at the world around us we can find the drum major instinct living among us. The writer writes not only because of the passion to do so but equally to gain the attention of readers. The musician plays an instrument to entertain and engage with an audience in hopes of winning favor with fans. The singer pours heart filled emotion into a song to establish a personal connection with an audience and to create a body of talented work that is appreciated. The doctor or lawyer literally saves lives but also wants to be acknowledged for the hard work. Overall, almost every purposeful aspect of human interaction has a little drum major instinct lurking in the midst. However, it's how we live and foster that instinct that can make a difference not only for ourselves but the world around us.

Resources: http://www.stanford.edu/group/King/publications/sermons/680204.000_Drum_Major_Instinct.html