We owe our children – the most vulnerable citizens in any society – a life free from violence and fear.
Nelson MandelaRead
But the human body has an enormous capacity for adjusting to trying circumstances. I have found that one can bear the unbearable if one can keep one's spirits strong even when one's body is being tested. Strong convictions are the secret of surviving deprivation; your spirit can be full even when your stomach is empty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The human spirit can endure significant hardship if it remains strong and resolute.
In this quote, Nelson Mandela emphasizes the remarkable adaptability of the human body and spirit in the face of adversity. He suggests that though physical deprivation may be challenging, maintaining a strong spirit and firm convictions can help individuals endure even the toughest circumstances. The essence is that our inner strength can sustain us during difficult times, allowing us to confront and overcome severe challenges.
Themes
ResilienceSpiritStrengthHardshipAdaptability
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to inspire individuals facing tough situations.
More from Nelson Mandela
All quotes →What freedom am I being offered while the organization of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts.
Nelson MandelaRead
The past is a rich resource on which we can draw in order to make decisions for the future, but it does not dictate our choices. We should look back at the past and select what is good, and leave behind what is bad.
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We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.
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After one has been in prison, it is the small things that one appreciates: being able to take a walk whenever one wants, going into a shop and buying a newspaper, speaking or choosing to remain silent. The simple act of being able to control one's person.
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I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses.
Nelson MandelaRead
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