Though the event took place long before I was born, it still seems difficult to believe that this April 4, 2008 will be the 40th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s passing from this world.

His work for justice and equality has rarely seen it’s equal. Unlike so many who are unhappy and frustrated by their lot in life, and choose to use violence and aggression to try and depose their oppressors, Dr. King encouraged each of us to stand up for ourselves and change the world without violence.

His untimely death at the hands of James Earl Ray on the balcony of that Memphis, Tennessee motel seemed in complete contrast to his entire life’s work; time froze and the reverberation from the blast seemed to echo through hearts around the world.

Since that day, many have done their part to memorialize his great deeds. Perhaps the best way to connect with his work is to find your own way to honor Dr. King’s memory this April 4th. Even the smallest gesture is better than letting the day pass unnoted, but if you are having trouble coming up with some ideas, here are some from the greats to get you started:

-- From U2: When the song “Pride: In the Name of Love” was released in the 1980s it wasn’t long before the world realized that Bono and the guys were singing about this monumental loss. You could try writing your own song about Dr. King.

-- From Nordette Adams and Jamie McKenzie: “Remembering A Life” and “Standing Tall” were both written to commemorate Dr. Kings life and legacy. Poetry is one of the most ancient forms of expressing hopes and grief, give it a try – it doesn’t have to rhyme, it just has to express your feelings!

-- From Edward Clay Wright: “Martin Luther King.” The name is simple and to the point, and this painting reflects the many facets of Dr. King’s life. Visual art work doesn’t have to be realistic – it could be abstract and be just as meaningful.

Other ideas: Plant a tree that can grow in his memory, make a stepping stone for your garden or yard to promote peaceful solutions to life’s problems, go into your community – whether at a school or religious institution – and hold a discussion about what we can do to promote justice and equality around us.

Or, if you’re short on time, you could always make a donation to the I Have a Dream Foundation or to The King Center.

No matter what you choose to do, don’t let this April 4th pass without giving a little thanks to a man who did so much for so many.