Everything was so new - the whole idea of going into space was new and daring. There were no textbooks, so we had to write them.
Katherine JohnsonRead
I don't have a feeling of inferiority. Never had. I'm as good as anybody, but no better.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes self-confidence and equality among individuals.
Katherine Johnson's quote reflects her strong sense of self-worth and belief in equality. She asserts that while she recognizes her own capabilities and value, she does not see herself as superior to anyone else, which challenges societal norms that often foster feelings of inferiority, especially among marginalized groups. This perspective encourages others to embrace their self-worth while fostering respect for everyone.
In practice
During a motivational speech on self-esteem at a school assembly.
Everything was so new - the whole idea of going into space was new and daring. There were no textbooks, so we had to write them.
Girls are capable of doing everything men are capable of doing. Sometimes they have more imagination than men.
I was excited at something new, always liked something new, but give credit to everybody who helped. I didn't do anything alone but try to go to the root of the question and succeeded there.
It was foolish indeed - thus to run farther and farther from all who could help her, as if she had been seeking a fit spot for the goblin creature to eat her in at his leisure; but that is the way fear serves us: it always sides with the thing we are afraid of.
For years now I have heard the word "wait." It rings in the ear of every Negro with a piercing familiarity. This "wait" has almost always meant "never."
I do not murmur, even if my heart break.
Who would be free themselves must strike the blow. Better even to die free than to live slaves.
What happened in Iraq and Syria was that the world remained silent as ISIS expanded.
If ever I feel the soul within me elevate and expand to those dimensions not wholly unworthy of its Almighty Architect, it is when I contemplate the cause of my country, deserted by all the world beside, and I standing up boldly and lone and hurling defiance at her victorious oppressors.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.