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First, the news…

From: Time.com

{Excerpted}

“Coretta Scott King, the widow of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr, died in her sleep early Tuesday morning at the age of 78. She had worked tirelessly after her husband’s death in 1968 to carry on his legacy and only recently began to slow down her efforts. Having suffered a stroke in August, 2005, King made a surprising appearance at a children’s program in mid January during events surrounding the annual commemoration of King’s birthday. Passive and regal in a wheelchair, King did not speak but welcomed a line of children to her side.” (more…)

Here’s her bio

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I had a chance to see Mrs. King once when I lived in Atlanta, Ga. As she walked past me, I couldn’t help but notice how tired she looked. In fact, every time I would see this great woman, she just look very worn. I think part of it had to do with the fact that she was by default the symbol of the civil rights movement. To many, it was her job to remind America and the rest of the world on a daily basis the pain and struggle of a movement that took place over 5 decades ago. While I can appreciate the historical value of all of this, I found myself oftentimes noticing the toll this must have taken on her life.

In any event, she seemed to take the whole thing in stride as she would make her appearances all over this country encouraging others to move beyond the mountaintop. My hope and prayer is that another generation of young women would hear the message of her life and do likewise.

Thanks Mrs. King!