It is okay to be an outsider, a recent arrival, new on the scene - and not just okay, but something to be thankful for. ... Because being an insider can so easily mean collapsing the horizons, can so easily mean accepting the presumptions of your province.
Interpretation
Embracing being an outsider can lead to personal growth and broader perspectives.
This quote encourages individuals to appreciate their status as outsiders or newcomers, suggesting that such positions can foster gratitude and unique insights. Being an insider often limits one’s worldview by adhering to the norms and expectations of a familiar environment, while being an outsider allows for exploration and questioning of established beliefs.
In practice
In a speech about diversity, one could say, 'It is okay to be an outsider, which brings fresh perspectives to our community.'
You have a right to say no. Most of us have very weak and flaccid 'no' muscles. We feel guilty for saying no. We get ostracized and challenged for saying no, so we forget it's our choice. Your 'no' muscle has to be built up to get to a place where you can say, 'I don't care if that's what you want. I don't want that. No.'
He may be a very nice man. But I haven't got the time to figure that out. All I know is, he's got a uniform and a gun and I have to relate to him that way. That's the only way to relate to him because one of us may have to die.
For many years, I shut down that place inside myself that needed to rage, cry, ask questions and basically just express herself. I made a conscious choice when I put (the song) 'Me and a Gun' on the record not to stay a victim anymore.
I hope to live long enough to see my surviving comrades march side by side with the Union veterans along Pennsylvania Avenue, and then I will die happy.
Give us what belongs to us in peace, and if you don't give it to us in peace, we will take it by force.
Have courage for the great sorrows of life and patience for the small ones; and when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace.
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