Nothing could be worse than the fear that one had given up too soon, and left one unexpended effort that might have saved the world.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the fear of not trying hard enough.
Jane Addams highlights the deep regret one might feel if they give up prematurely, particularly if their continued efforts could have led to significant positive outcomes. The quote urges individuals to confront their fears of failure and to continue striving for their goals, as the potential to make a meaningful impact should motivate them to persist.
In practice
In a motivational speech about resilience, I would use this quote to inspire the audience to keep trying despite challenges.
I might believe I had unusual talent if I did not know what good music was; I might enjoy half an hour's practice a day if I were busy and happy the rest of the time. You do not know what life means when all the difficulties are removed! I am simply smothered and sickened with advantages. It is like eating a sweet dessert the first thing in the morning.
America's future will be determined by the home and the school. The child becomes largely what he is taught; hence we must watch what we teach, and how we live.
Action indeed is the sole medium of expression for ethics.
I am not one of those who believe - broadly speaking - that women are better than men. We have not wrecked railroads, nor corrupted legislatures, nor done many unholy things that men have done; but then we must remember that we have not had the chance.
National events determine our ideals, as much as our ideals determine national events.
If the meanest man in the republic is deprived of his rights,then every man in the republic is deprived of his rights.
Life, Stormy says, is not about how fast you run or even with what degree of grace. It's about perseverance, about staying on your feet and slogging forward no matter what.
Goal setting has traditionally been based on past performance. This practice has tended to perpetuate the sins of the past.
You are capable of more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honorably. Prepare to be alone at times, and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give.
It is not a question of starting. The start has been made. It's a question of what's to be done from now on.
If you put yourself in a position where you have to stretch outside your comfort zone, then you are forced to expand your consciousness.
If you want the Kingdom speeded, go out and speed it yourselves. Only obedience rationalizes prayer. Only Missions can redeem your intercessions from insincerity.
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