Among many who sought to deter me, was one dear old Christian gentleman, whose crowning argument always was, "The cannibals! you will be eaten by cannibals!" At last I replied, "Mr. Dickson, you are advanced in years now, and your own prospect is soon to be laid in the grave, there to be eaten by worms; I confess to you, that if I can but live and die serving and honouring the Lord Jesus, it will make no difference to me whether I am eaten by cannibals or by worms."
Interpretation
The quote illustrates the importance of living a meaningful life despite fears of mortality and external dangers.
In this quote, John Gibson Paton addresses the concerns of a friend worried about the dangers he might face in life, particularly the fear of being consumed by cannibals. Paton counters this fear by highlighting the inevitability of death and expressing that what truly matters is living a life that serves and honors his faith, suggesting that the fear of death should not deter one from pursuing their calling.
In practice
To inspire students during a graduation speech emphasizing the importance of following one's passions despite fears.
He knew that his wings could ignite at any moment, but the closer he came to touching the fire, the more he sensed that he was fulfilling his destiny. As he put it in his journal that night: If I mean to save my life, then I have to come within an inch of destroying it.
You should never let your fears prevent you from doing what you know is right.
No struggle can ever succeed without women participating side by side with men.
I will not walk away from the people and communities whom I love deeply. I will continue to raise my voice for justice and equality for all, organize communities who want to defend the rights of black people, stand against policies that target and marginalize Muslims, and advocate for health care for all people.
Is it a crime, to fight, for what is mine?
She feared no danger, for she knew no sin.
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