Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr.
Full size sculpture of Rosa Parks sitting on a Birmingham city bus… in the “wrong” section. (Pic taken at Birmingham Civil Rights Institute)
Last week in Alabama while visiting the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and The Legacy Museum in Montgomery I learned more about African-American history and the Civil Rights’ journey. Both cities and their museums were impactful, memorable and heart rending.
Two figures stood out – Rosa Parks and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
One quietly refused to give up her front seat on a Montgomery bus ride. She was taken off the bus and arrested.
The other spoke widely and eloquently about gaining rights using nonviolent tactics. He also spent time in jail.
As I toured these museums and read and listened to accounts of both Ms. Parks and MLK I was reminded of a pertinent example from Susan Cain’s book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts In A World That Can’t Stop Talking.
Cain uses these two civil rights’ heroes as models of the power of both types of personalities. She cites that each needed the other to create the synergy for change.
Together Rosa Parks and MLK initiated the civil rights’ protests resulting in vast changes.
Martin Luther King Jr giving his “I Have a Dream” speech in Washington DC. (Pic taken at Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.)
Introverts vs. Extroverts
Introverts are not necessarily shy. Introverts gain energy by being in a quiet space.
Extroverts recharge by socializing, being out in the world.
Logical Conclusion
You think that MLK and extroverts are better public speakers.
You’re wrong!
According to Susan Cain extroverts are given too much credit. She shares that you might think that extroverts are better leaders, communicators and sellers of ideas/products/services.
While it’s more difficult for introverts to be public speakers (the effort drains energy and heightens discomfort), introverts can be great speakers! Why? Introverts are great team players, better listeners and keen observers. With this skill set an introvert can communicate with reasoned nuance.
For all introverts and extroverts out there ➜
Both verts can be effective communicators.
One of my favorite phrases that I share with all my clients and now you: “Style is being yourself … ON PURPOSE.”
Picture taken at The Freedom Monument Park in Montgomery, Alabama.
You can’t be anyone but yourself. So embrace and use your strengths.
© 2024 Karen Cortell Reisman, Speak For Yourself® CEO. All rights reserved.
I recommend visiting these museums. Find out more at:
https://civilrightstrail.com/attraction/birmingham-civil-rights-institute/
Photos taken by KCR at Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and The Legacy Sites in Montgomery, Alabama
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