I was in my thirteenth year when I heard a voice from God to help me govern my conduct. And the first time I was very much afraid.
Interpretation
This quote reflects the deeply personal and courageous response to a divine calling, highlighting the fear that often accompanies such profound guidance.
Joan of Arc's quote speaks to the experience of receiving a calling from a higher power at a young age, emphasizing both the fear that can accompany such profound moments and the courage required to act upon that guidance. It illustrates the inner struggle between doubt and conviction, showcasing how uncertainty is a natural part of stepping into one's destiny.
In practice
This quote can inspire students during a graduation speech about pursuing their dreams despite fears.
King of England, and you, duke of Bedford, who call yourself regent of the kingdom of France... settle your debt to the king of Heaven; return to the Maiden, who is envoy of the king of Heaven, the keys to all the good towns you took and violated in France.
I saw them with my bodily eyes as clearly as I see you. And when they departed, I used to weep and wish they would take me with them.
I place trust in God, my creator, in all things; I love Him with all my heart.
Of the love or hatred God has for the English, I know nothing, but I do know that they will all be thrown out of France, except those who die there.
If I am not, may God put me there; and if I am, may God so keep me.
I would rather die than do something which I know to be a sin, or to be against God's will.
Looking back now, I realise that belonging to the family of a labourer actually helped to prepare my body for boxing. There were many times when my family didn't have enough food or warm clothing to go around. All this made me physically, as well as emotionally, tough.
Racism is not only in football, it's in cricket too. Even within teams as a black man, I get the end of the stick. Black and powerful. Black and proud.
When the Bangladesh war happened, people in Pakistan who did not support it were called unpatriotic. My father was in the jail at that time, and a lot of those who knew my family used to call us children of a traitor.
For those searching for something more than just the norm. We lay it all down, including what others call sanity, for just a few moments on waves larger than life. We do this because we know there is still something greater than all of us. Something that inspires us spiritually. We start going down hill, when we stop taking risks.
When an almond tree became covered with blossoms in the heart of winter, all the trees around it began to jeer. 'What vanity,' they screamed, 'what insolence! Just think, it believes it can bring spring in this way!' The flowers of the almond tree blushed for shame. 'Forgive me, my sisters,' said the tree. 'I swear I did not want to blossom, but suddenly I felt a warm springtime breeze in my heart.
Being born gay, black, and female is not a revolutionary act. Being proud to be a gay black female is.
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