Our elevation must be the result of self-efforts and work of our own hands. No other human power can accomplish it. If we but determine it shall be so, it will be so.
Interpretation
Success comes from our own efforts and determination, not from external help.
This quote by Martin Delany emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and initiative in achieving one's goals. It suggests that true elevation in life is a product of one's own hard work and dedication, asserting that external forces cannot bring about our success unless we take the first step and are committed to making it happen.
In practice
This quote can be used as inspiration for a motivational speech at a school graduation.
No horse gets anywhere until he is harnessed. No stream or gas drives anything until it is confined. No Niagara is ever turned into light and power until it is tunneled. No life ever grows great until it is focused, dedicated, disciplined.
The best pace is a suicide pace, and today looks like a good day to die.
Somewhere in the world, someone is doing something that you decided couldn't be done.
One by one I have seen obstacles removed, errors corrected, prejudices softened, proscriptions relinquished, and my people advancing in all the elements that go to make up the sum of the general welfare. And I remember that God reigns in eternity, and that whatever delays, whatever disappointments and discouragements may come, truth, justice, liberty and humanity will ultimately prevail.
Take your mind off the problems for a moment, and focus on the positive possibilities. Consider how very much you are able to do.
First, I'm trying to prove to myself that I'm a person. Then maybe I'll convince myself that I'm an actress.
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