While I knew that individuals had in history - and still could - make a difference, it seemed presumptuous - even pompous - to imagine that I could be part of it, that I could be one of them.
Interpretation
The quote expresses the humility and doubt individuals may feel about their ability to impact history.
Samantha Power reflects on the historical significance of individual actions and the often overwhelming feeling of insignificance that can accompany such awareness. She acknowledges that while many have made important differences, considering oneself as capable of doing the same can feel arrogant, revealing a tension between aspiration and self-doubt in the context of making a meaningful contribution to society.
In practice
Use this quote in a discussion about historical movements and the role of individuals.
Sanctions did indeed help to bring Iran to the negotiating table. But sanctions did not stop the advance of Iran's nuclear program. Negotiations have done that, and it is in our interest not to deny ourselves the chance to achieve a long-term, comprehensive solution that would deny Iran a nuclear weapon.
Zimbabweans are severely malnourished, and deaths from starvation occur even in the cities. The country has not yet suffered nationwide famine only because international donors have stepped in.
Western governments have generally tried to contain genocide by appeasing its architects. But the sad record of the last century shows that the walls the United States tries to build around genocidal societies almost inevitably shatter.
No more than a surgeon can operate while tweeting can you reach your potential with one ear in, one ear out. You actually have to reacquaint yourself with concentration. We all do.
When dictators feel their support slipping among adults, it is not unusual for them to alter school textbooks in the hope of enlisting impressionable youths in their cause.
Throughout history, when societies face tough economic times, we have seen democratic reforms deferred, decreased trust in government, persecution of minority groups, and a general shrinking of the democratic space.
One only wishes Wayne LaPierre and his NRA board of directors could be drafted to some of these scenes, where they would be required to put on booties and rubber gloves and help clean up the blood, the brains, and the chunks of intestine still containing the poor wads of half-digested food that were some innocent bystander's last meal.
Revolutions are something you see only in retrospect.
Between social reforms and revolution there exists for the social democracy an indissoluble tie. The struggle for reforms is its means; the social revolution, its aim.
If there had been no troublemakers, no Dissenters, we should still be living in caves.
After winter comes the summer. After night comes the dawn. And after every storm, there comes clear, open skies.
Personal, inner change without a change in circumstances and structures is an idealist illusion, as though man were only a soul and not a body as well.
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