Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.

The line frames faith as an active, risk-bearing commitment rather than mere assent: one moves forward without full information, trusting that further “steps” will appear. Its staircase metaphor emphasizes process—progress is made incrementally, not by possessing a complete map in advance. In popular use, the quote functions as encouragement in moments of uncertainty (personal change, moral action, social struggle), aligning with themes often associated with King’s preaching and activism: courage, hope, and perseverance amid incomplete visibility of outcomes. Even so, the sentiment should be treated as inspirational paraphrase unless a verifiable primary source is identified.