Sometimes it takes a while to recognize that someone has a special ability to get us to believe in ourselves, to tie that belief to our highest ideals, and to imagine that together we can do great things. In those rare moments, when such a person comes along, we need to put aside our plans and reach for what we know is possible.
About this quote
- Attributed to
- Caroline Kennedy
- Attribution status
- As published
Photo: Noclip · Public domain · source · Portrait: United States Department of State (Public domain)
What would change if you lived this for one week?
Choose one small action that honours this idea and do it before noon.
Join to journal, save & shareCreate a share imageWatch & listen
Ultimix@6 Dj Kent 06 12 13 A Tribute to Nelson Mandela
Madiba Tribute (Photo Montage of the life of Nelson Mandela)
Nelson Mandela Tribute: Remembering South Africa's first black president
More from Caroline Kennedy & related wisdom
Sometimes people hold a core belief that is very strong. When they are presented with evidence that works against that belief, the new evidence cannot be accepted. It would create a feeling that is extremely uncomfortable, called cognitive dissonance. And because it is so important to protect the core belief, they will rationalize, ignore and even deny anything that doesn't fit in with the core belief.
You have got to have something in which to believe. You have got to have leaders, organization, friendships, and contacts that help you to believe that, and help you to put out your best.
One voice can change a room. And if one voice can change a room, then it can change a city. And if it can change a city, it can change a state. And if it can change a state, it can change a nation, and if it can change a nation, it can change the world. Your voice can change the world.
The job facing American voters — in the days and years to come is to determine which hearts, minds and souls command those qualities best suited to unify a country rather than further divide it, to heal the wounds of a nation as opposed to aggravate its injuries, and to secure for the next generation a legacy of choices based on informed awareness rather than one of reactions based on unknowing fear.