Remember and help America remember that the fellowship of human beings is more important than the fellowship of race and class and gender in a democratic society.
Marian Wright EdelmanRead
Be a good ancestor. Stand for something bigger than yourself. Add value to the Earth during your sojourn.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote encourages individuals to contribute positively to future generations and to live a life of purpose beyond their personal interests.
Marian Wright Edelman's quote emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy that transcends one's own existence. It calls on individuals to actively contribute to the well-being of the planet and society, highlighting the significance of standing for values that benefit others and adding worth during one's time on Earth. The idea of being a 'good ancestor' urges people to think about the impact their actions have on future generations, advocating for a life of purpose and responsibility.
Themes
AncestorLegacyPurposeContributionFutureValues
In practice
Example use cases
In a public speech about environmental responsibility, you might say, 'As Marian Wright Edelman reminds us, we should strive to be good ancestors for future generations.'
More from Marian Wright Edelman
All quotes βFar less wealthy industrialized countries have committed to end child poverty, while the United States is sliding backwards. We can do better. We must demand that our leaders do better.
Marian Wright EdelmanRead
Dr. King used to say, 'I was sitting in the back of the bus, but my mind was always up front.' Don't let anybody tell you that you can't do it. You aim high and you work very hard and now I think it's clear that you can be anything you want to.
Marian Wright EdelmanRead
The outside world told black kids when I was growing up that we weren't worth anything. But our parents said it wasn't so, and our churches and our schoolteachers said it wasn't so. They believed in us, and we, therefore, believed in ourselves.
Marian Wright EdelmanRead
I was taught that the world had a lot of problems; that I could struggle and change them; that intellectual and material gifts brought the privilege and responsibility of sharing with others less fortunate; and that service is the rent each of us pays for living - the very purpose of life and not something you do in your spare time or after you have reached your personal goals.
Marian Wright EdelmanRead
We must always refill and ensure there is a critical mass of leaders and activists committed to nonviolence and racial and economic justice who will keep seeding and building transforming movements.
Marian Wright EdelmanRead
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