It is chiefly through books that we enjoy intercourse with superior minds. In the best books, great men talk to us, give us their most precious thoughts, and pour their souls into ours.
William Ellery ChanningRead
Each of us is meant to have a character all our own, to be what no other can exactly be, and do what no other can exactly do.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Embrace your individuality and unique purpose in life.
This quote emphasizes the importance of individuality and the unique contributions that each person can make to the world. It encourages self-acceptance and the pursuit of one's own path, highlighting that everyone has a distinct character and role that cannot be replicated by anyone else.
Themes
IndividualityUniquenessSelfPurposeCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to encourage students to embrace their individuality.
More from William Ellery Channing
All quotes βNo power in society, no hardship in your condition can depress you, keep you down, in knowledge, power, virtue, influence, but by your own consent.
William Ellery ChanningRead
I laugh, for hope hath a happy place with me; If my boat sinks, 'tis to another sea.
William Ellery ChanningRead
We smile at the ignorance of the savage who cuts down the tree in order to reach its fruit; but the same blunder is made by every person who is over eager and impatient in the pursuit of pleasure.
William Ellery ChanningRead
Every mind was made for growth, for knowledge, and its nature is sinned against when it is doomed to ignorance.
William Ellery ChanningRead
He who is false to the present duty breaks a thread in the loom, and you will see the effect when the weaving of a life-time is unraveled.
William Ellery ChanningRead
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I love those who can smile in trouble.
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Eyesight should learn from reason.
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