Favorite Inspirational Quotes

Remember always that you have not only the right to be an individual; you have an obligation to be one.  You cannot make any useful contribution in life unless you do this.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Let’s think about what is said in this inspirational quote.  If I am like everyone else and therefore don’t go my own way, then all I contribute is the same as everyone else.  That changes things little, if at all.

Before TV became so all encompassing, there were very distinct regional differences in the US.  There are still some today but nothing like it used to be.  The regional distinctions are becoming muted and there is little “individualism” left.

More and more, it seems that people are becoming just part of the herd following whatever the latest “it” fashion or thing to do is.  This is also very much a part of being young - to be like everyone else and fit in with some crowd.

But it is those who follow their own distinct style that make the contribution.  Indeed they are the ones who set whatever the latest “it” thing is whether I consider those contributions or not.  It’s the individuals who change the world whether it is for better or worse.

Hitler was such an individual.  We are probably still reaping the changes made by what he did.  So is Bill Gates an individual (and I do not mean they are the same type of person!).  Whether you believe Microsoft and its products are good or bad, Gates brought the personal computer into the reach of the common man and made it something available to more than just geeks.  This has changed our society.

Now having said all the above, I do also believe that any working member of society makes a contribution whether you are a garbage collector or brain surgeon.  The jobs are just as important.  Can you imagine how things would be if no one collected or messed with garbage?  Having hauled my own to the local dump, I can.  Life in a town or city would become a horrible nightmare.  And the brain surgeon can save lives or make the living of a life much easier.

So by doing a job, you can be making a useful contribution in life.  But let it not end there.  Do not be just one of the herd.  Find your own individual voice and own your life.

Author’s Note:  Sorry for not posting the last couple weeks.  My daughter had emergency surgery.  We had to help her and then bring her and her babies home with us for her convalescence.  Taking care of them has been a bit disruptive.  The next couple weeks could be hit-or-miss for posts as well.  Things should return to normal after that.

Tags: individual