I don't regard myself as a cracking good climber. I'm just strong in the back. I have a lot of enthusiasm, and I'm good on ice.
Interpretation
This quote reflects humility and emphasizes the importance of enthusiasm and resilience over natural talent.
Edmund Hillary expresses that he does not see himself as an exceptional climber, highlighting that his strength and enthusiasm are what contribute to his success. This quote conveys the idea that dedication and passion can often outweigh inherent abilities in achieving goals, and it encourages individuals to recognize the value of hard work and determination.
In practice
In a motivational speech to inspire students preparing for their exams.
I think I mainly climb mountains because I get a great deal of enjoyment out of it. I never attempt to analyze these things too thoroughly, but I think that all mountaineers do get a great deal of satisfaction out of overcoming some challenge which they think is very difficult for them, or which perhaps may be a little dangerous.
Despite all I have seen and experiences, I still get the same thrill out of glimpsing a tiny patch of snow in a high mountain gully and feel the same urge to climb toward it.
I've always hated the danger part of climbing, and it's great to come down again because it's safe.
Even when you're 50, you can make the effort to improve your standards.
Many people have been getting too casual about climbing Everest. I forecast a disaster many times.
I am a lucky man. I have had a dream and it has come true, and that is not a thing that happens often to men.
I'm not the kind of cat that's going to cut off an ear if I can't do something.
No soldier outlives a thousand chances. But every soldier believes in Chance and trusts his luck.
Everything that scares you is an opportunity to know your best self better.
You just need to be a flea against injustice. Enough committed fleas biting strategically can make even the biggest dog uncomfortable and transform even the biggest nation.
This is what I tell, especially young women, fight the big fights. Don't fight the little fight... Be the first one in, be the last one out. Do your homework, choose your battles. Don't whine, and don't be the one who complains about everything. Fight the big fight.
He was the up and equal homosexual who would not sit at the back of the bus.
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