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Somebody scoffed, Oh, you'll never to that - At least no one ever has done it; But he took off his coat and he took off his hat, And the first thing we knew, he'd begun it.
Edgar Guest
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the power of determination and action even in the face of skepticism.

Edgar Guest's quote illustrates the idea that many great achievements often begin amidst doubt and disbelief from others. It encourages individuals to silence critics through proactive efforts, showing that what seems impossible can be accomplished through perseverance and courage. The act of taking off one's coat and hat symbolizes readiness to work towards one's goals, highlighting that taking initiative is the first step in making the extraordinary happen.

Themes

DeterminationActionSkepticismPerseveranceInitiative

In practice

Example use cases

During a team meeting to brainstorm new ideas, you could use this quote to inspire your colleagues to take the first step despite potential challenges.

More from Edgar Guest

Lord, this humble house we'd keep Sweet with play and calm with sleep. Help us so that we may give Beauty to the lives we live. Let Thy love and let Thy grace Shine upon our dwelling place.
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The timid and fearful first failures dismay, but the stout heart stays trying by night and by day. He values his failures as lessons that teach The one way to get to the goal he would reach.
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Who does his task from day to day and meets whatever comes his way, Believing God has willed it so, has found real greatness here below. Who guards his post, no matter where, believing God must need him there, Although but lowly toil it be, has risen to nobility. For great and low there's just one test, 'tis that each man shall do his best, Who works with all the strength he can, shall never die in debt to man.
Edgar GuestRead
I'd like to be the sort of friend that you have been to me. I'd like to be the help that you've been always glad to be; I'd like to mean as much to you each minute of the day, as you have meant, old friend of mine, to me along the way.
Edgar GuestRead
But keep on working and hoping still. For in spite of the grumblers who stand about, somehow, it seems, all things work out.
Edgar GuestRead
At Christmas A man is at his finest towards the finish of the year; He is almost what he should be when the Christmas season's here; Then he's thinking more of others than he's thought the months before, And the laughter of his children is a joy worth toiling for. He is less a selfish creature than at any other time; When the Christmas spirit rules him he comes close to the sublime.
Edgar GuestRead

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