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.
They said we were soft, that we would not fight, that we could not win. We are not a warlike nation. We do not go to war for gain or for territory; we go to war for principles, and we produce young men like these. I think I told every one of them that I would rather have that medal, the Congressional Medal of Honor, than to be President of the United States.
We cried and sobbed and wept and bled tears. But when we were finished, all we could do was continue living.
To see what is right and not to do it is want of courage, or of principle.
I don't have much positive to say about motor neuron disease, but it taught me not to pity myself because others were worse off, and to get on with what I still could do. I'm happier now than before I developed the condition.
I am convinced that...in the struggle for righteousness man has cosmic companionship.
The thing to do when one feels sure that he has said or done the right thing and is condemned, is to stand still and keep quiet. If he is right, time will show it.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.