A key player in the American civil rights movement in the middle of the 20th century, Martin Luther King Jr. promoted equality and justice through nonviolent means in his writings and speeches. Among his best-known theories is the idea that overcoming adversity requires positive reactions rather than negative feelings and behaviors.

Consider a room that is completely dark. More darkness can be used to try to drive out shadows, but this will only lead to chaos since there won't be any light to guide you. In a similar vein, adding more hate to an already tense situation doesn't make people feel any better or prevent miscommunications. Hatred exacerbates rather than resolves issues because it feeds on itself.

King thought that even the darkest periods in human history could be changed by the strong forces of love and understanding. Acts of compassion and kindness have the capacity to spread light well beyond their immediate surroundings, much like a single match can light up a room if it is given enough oxygen.

His message is one of optimism: constructive change results from positive action, regardless of how overwhelming obstacles may appear. People and communities can forge closer bonds based on respect and understanding if they choose love over hate.