WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall today released the following statement honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.:
"Each year, we come together on this day to honor the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to service. A man who brought hope and healing to America. And every year, events of the day serve as a reminder of how important it is that we all strive - both as individuals and as a society - to live up to that legacy.
"Last year, as we honored Dr. King, the people of Haiti were suffering in the aftermath of an unimaginable natural disaster. And Americans by the millions were rising to the call - offering aid, assistance, and prayers to a country most had never visited and to a people they had never met.
"Through their actions, they were answering what Dr. King called ‘life's most urgent question' - ‘what are you doing for others?'
"This year, we gather again to honor Dr. King. And today that uniquely American spirit is once again evident as our country faces a national tragedy of its own - the senseless murder of six innocent Americans and the grave wounding of a Congresswoman and 13 others.
"Congresswoman Giffords and those gathered at the Tucson supermarket on Saturday were simply living their lives, trying to make a difference. They were being active participants in the Democratic process when they became victims in a senseless tragedy."As we mourn those we have lost and pray for those who are struggling to recover, we would be wise to remember the words of Dr. King - our nation's preeminent advocate of non-violence. We would be wise to remind ourselves that ‘the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'
"At this time of challenge and controversy, Dr. King's legacy serves as a guiding light for us all. ‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness. Only light can do that,' Dr. King said. ‘Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.'
"That's why, as we honor Dr. King, I urge New Mexicans to love one another. Today we must live the words of Dr. King, who said, ‘I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.'
