Read the passage from King’s "Letter from Birmingham Jail.” "I just referred to the creation of tension as a part of the work of the nonviolent resister. This may sound rather shocking. But I must confess that I am not afraid of the word ‘tension.’ I have earnestly worked and preached against violent tension, but there is a type of constructive nonviolent tension that is necessary for growth.”

What does the word tension mean here? Why do you think King includes it? Write one or two paragraphs to answer these questions. Include supporting evidence to explain your response.