In this perilous world, if a black boy wanted to live a halfway normal life and die a natural death he had to learn early the art of how to get along with white folks.
Benjamin E. MaysRead
The tragedy of life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. It isn't a calamity to die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to dream...It is not a disgrace not to reach the stars, but it is a disgrace to have no stars to reach for. Not failure, but low aim is sin.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Having goals and dreams is essential; failing to reach them isn't tragic, but not having any goals is.
This quote emphasizes the importance of setting aspirations and having dreams in life. Instead of focusing on failure, it points out that the real tragedy is living without ambition or goals, as this leads to a life devoid of purpose and fulfillment. It suggests that even if one does not achieve their dreams, the act of dreaming itself is crucial for a meaningful existence.
Themes
GoalsDreamsAmbitionLifePurpose
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to encourage students to set their aspirations high.
More from Benjamin E. Mays
All quotes →It isn't more light we need, it isn't more truth, and it isn't more scientific data. It is more Christ, more courage, more spiritual insight to act on the light we have.
Benjamin E. MaysRead
A child must learn early to believe that she is somebody worthwhile, and that she can do many praiseworthy things.
Benjamin E. MaysRead
Whatever you do,strive to do it so well that no man living and no man dead and no man yet to be born could do it any better.
Benjamin E. MaysRead
Many well-meaning intelligent people have argued since the May 17, 1954, decision of the United States Supreme Court outlawing segregation in the public schools that communication between the races has broken down.
Benjamin E. MaysRead
He who starts behind in the great race of life must forever remain behind or run faster than the man in front.
Benjamin E. MaysRead
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A lot has happened over the years. And while this nation has been tested by war, and it's been tested by recession and all manner of challenges - I stand before you again tonight, after almost two terms as your president, to tell you I am more optimistic about the future of America than ever before.
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I'm not going to be the next anything. I'm going to be the first me, and someone's going to follow, and then they'll be the next me.
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It's hard for me... If I don't have a project going, I don't feel like I'm connected to anything. I don't even think it's that healthy for me. I like to get out of bed and have a purpose.
Tom PettyRead