The most difficult idea to reconcile in war is the notion that anything is going to be solved by killing a stranger, or in risking your life for a cause anchored in some distant political arena.
And what I was feeling was the wonder Of being more than me, of being more Than mere here and now allowed I had become a shining star, a burning nova Exploded with love Flying through an endlessly Expanding universe Away from the me that was Toward a me that is beyond Understanding.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the profound experience of transcending one's limitations and embracing a greater sense of self within the vastness of existence.
In this quote by Walter Dean Myers, the speaker reflects on the transformative power of love and the expansive nature of existence. It conveys the idea that one's identity can evolve beyond the immediate circumstances and limitations of life, allowing for a deeper connection to the universe and a sense of wonder. The imagery of becoming a 'shining star' signifies the potential for growth and enlightenment when we move beyond our mere physical existence and embrace the boundless possibilities of love and understanding.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote would be great for a speech on personal growth and transformation.
More from Walter Dean Myers
All quotes →I remember one time being told I could not play in a basketball game at the College of William and Mary because I was black, even though I was playing with a United States Army team.
As a writer, I absorb stories, allow them to churn within my own head and heart - often for years - until I find a way of telling them that fits both my time and temperament.
We need to tell young people that America was built by men and women of all colors and that the future of this country is dependent on the participation of all of our citizens.
Yeah, that's funny, huh?...Something hurts you real bad and you get used to it. Like being hurt becomes part of who you are.
Books transmit values. They explore our common humanity. What is the message when some children are not represented in those books?
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I tell young people: Do not think of yourself, think of others. Think of the future that awaits you, think about what you can do and do not fear anything.
Even places that have been shrouded in darkness for billions of years can be illuminated. Even a stone from the bottom of a river can be used to produce fire. Our present sufferings, no matter how dark, have certainly not continued for billions of years--nor will they linger forever. The sun will definitely rise. In fact, its ascent has already begun.
Kindle the taper like the steadfast star_x000D_ _x000D_ Ablaze on evening's forehead o'er the earth,_x000D_ _x000D_ And add each night a lustre till afar_x000D_ _x000D_ An eightfold splendor shine above thy hearth.
It is not easy to be a pioneer - but oh, it is fascinating!
You're already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.
Before you can inspire with emotion, you must be swamped with it yourself. Before you can move their tears, your own must flow. To convince them, you must yourself, believe.