Hope is not the same as optimism, a psychologist explains − just look at MLK’s example

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was a champion for equity in education. Civil Rights Movement co-founder Dr. Ralph David Abernathy and his wife Mrs. Juanita Abernathy (not pictured) follow with Dr. and Mrs. Martin Luther King, Jr., as the Abernathy children march on the front line, leading the Selma to Montgomery March in 1965. The children are (left-right): Donzaleigh Abernathy in striped sweater, Ralph David Abernathy III, and Juandalynn R. Abernathy in glasses. Name of the White Minister in the photo is unknown. (Abernathy Family Photos/Wikipedia Commons) Published: April 2, 2024 8:31am EDT Kendra Thomas Associate Professor of Psychology, Hope College Civil rights leaders talk about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s impact on equality in education Photo information NNPA On April 3, 1968, standing before a crowded church, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. painted his vision for justice. “I’ve seen the Promised Land,” he said. “I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land.” Twenty-two hours later, he was assassinated. King’s prophetic words express the virtue of hope amid hardship. He was not optimistic that he would reach the “Promised Land,” yet he...