Letter from Janet Somerville to MLK

Transcript

Many say, who will show us better times? O Lord, let the light of your countenance shine upon us! You put gladness in my heart, more than when grain and wine abound. Psalms 4, vs [verses] 6-7 [Stamp in Red Ink: DEC[ember] 4, 1967] [Inserted Text: File] Dear Dr. King, You have indeed "put gladness in my heart;" it was very appropriate to leave Atlanta on Thanksgiving Day. You have been a renewal of hope for me, because you represent forces that really might help our culture transcend its juggernaut possibilities and serve freedom in community. You have been a renewal of faith, because I have seen with my eyes the fruits of the Spirit in your preaching, in your pastoral relationship with you people, and in the life-style of your family and your staff. I am deeply grateful for the way I was made to feel utterly at home; by Sunday I felt like a sister in the SCLC [Southern Christian Leadership Conference] family. Tomorrow I'll be writing to you "officially" about the rest of the series. This letter is just a personal thank-you for the Christian riches you opened up for me. Please thank your wife (and children!) for the kindness I was showered with. May we have more word to do together in the future. Gratefully, [Closing Signature: Janet Somerville]