I should not proceed by land to the East, as is customary, but by a Westerly route, in which direction we have hitherto no certain evidence that any one has gone.
Interpretation
This quote reflects the courage to take unconventional paths in pursuit of discovery and exploration.
Christopher Columbus expresses his determination to take a route less traveled, emphasizing the importance of venturing into the unknown rather than following the traditional, safer paths. This mindset showcases the courage required to explore new territories and the willingness to face uncertainty for the sake of potential discovery.
In practice
In an inspirational speech about innovation at a tech conference.
Weep for me, whoever has charity, truth and justice! I did not come on this voyage for gain, honor or wealth, that is certain; for then the hope of all such things was dead. I came to Your Highnesses with honest purpose and sincere zeal; and I do not lie. I humbly beseech Your Highnesses that, if it please God to remove me hence, you will help me to go to Rome and on other pilgrimages.
For the execution of the voyage to the Indies, I did not make use of intelligence, mathematics or maps.
Sailed this day nineteen leagues, and determined to count less than the true number, that the crew might not be dismayed if the voyage should prove long.
The fiercest serpent may be overcome by a swarm of ants.
Strength is one of those things you're supposed to have. You don't feel that you have it at the time you're going through it.
Your greatest fears are created by your imagination. Don't give in to them.
There is no power in the world that can stop the forward march of free men and women when they are joined in the solidarity of human brotherhood.
I can survive setbacks, I've survived a lot of setbacks in my life. I don't see them as anything other than the natural ebb and flow of life and politics.
We are going by you without fighting if you will let us, but we are going by you anyhow!
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