...people think non-violence is really weak and non-militant. These are misconceptions that people have because they don't understand what non-violence means. Non-violence takes more guts, if I can put it bluntly, than violence. Most violent acts are accomplished by getting the opponent off guard, and it doesn't take that much character, I think, if one wants to do it.
Interpretation
Non-violence requires great strength and character, contrary to popular belief.
Cesar Chavez emphasizes that non-violence is not a sign of weakness but rather a demonstration of immense courage and strength of character. He argues that violent actions often exploit surprise and lack the depth of conviction that non-violent resistance demands, making it a far more courageous and difficult path to take.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a speech on peace activism to highlight the strength required for non-violent resistance.
I became a vegetarian after realizing that animals feel afraid, cold, hungry and unhappy like we do. I feel very deeply about vegetarianism and the animal kingdom. It was my dog Boycott who led me to question the right of humans to eat other sentient beings.
I think one of the great, great problems...is confusing people to the point where they become immobile. In fact, the more things people can find out for themselves, the more vigor the organization is going to have.
In the final analysis it doesn't really matter what the political system is...We don't need perfect political systems; we need perfect participation.
There is enough love and good will in our movement to give energy to our struggle and still have plenty left over to break down and change the climate of hate and fear around us.
Our union represents a breaking away...represents sharing a power, represent questioning, represents a new force...however long it takes, we are geared for a struggle.
Every time we sit at a table at night or in the morning to enjoy the fruits and grain and vegetables from our good earth, remember that they come from the work of men and women and children who have been exploited for generations.
By the apostle Paul, shadows tonight Have struck more terror to the soul of Richard Than can the substance of ten thousand soldiers.
My mustrious lordship, i'll show you what a woman can do
Speak out. You've got to speak out against the madness
If it's me against 48, I feel sorry for the 48.
Who would have thought it would be possible to run across Canada on one leg, eh? I wanted to try the impossible and show that it could be done.
there on the beaches of Normandy I began to reflect on the wonders of these ordinary people whose lives were laced with the markings of greatness.
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