Some Things Are Worth Repeating

While talking to an older gentleman who took an interest in me and the work I was doing, he paused to tell me something that would impact, not just what I was doing but also how. Have you ever experienced a moment like that? Individuals, families, communities and the nation have been impacted by moments that so affected them, everything changed. History is filled with words spoken at a crucial time to set the tone, focus the group, change the momentum, or redirect the thinking so that point is forever etched in the hearts and minds of the listeners. Words fueled by wisdom go a long way in helping each of our lives become more fulfilling. A family, community, or country may benefit or be destroyed by how it handles the application of its historical record and teachings.

Here are some words to chew on:

“Mistakes are a fact of life. It is the response to the error that counts.” – Nikki Giovanni, Poet

“There is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” – Amanda Gorman, Writer

“In recognizing the humanity of our fellow beings, we pay ourselves the highest tribute.” – Justice Thurgood Marshall, Supreme Court Justice

“Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly.” – Langston Hughes, Writer

“Success is never to be measured not so much by opposition that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.” – Booker T. Washington, Educator

“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” – Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm

“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” – Dr. Mae Jemison, Astronaut

“Failure is a word I don’t accept.” and “To succeed, one must be creative and persistent.” – John H. Johnson, Publisher

“The need for change bulldozed a road down the center of my mind.” – Maya Angelou. Activist, Artist

“It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you down, it’s the pebble in your shoes.” – Muhammad Ali, Athlete

“You are not judged by the height you have risen, but from the depth you have climbed.” – Frederick Douglass

“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.” – Rosa Parks

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” – James Baldwin, Writer

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