For the execution of the voyage to the Indies, I did not make use of intelligence, mathematics or maps.
Interpretation
This quote reflects the idea of embarking on new endeavors without relying on conventional methods or knowledge.
Christopher Columbus's statement highlights the spirit of exploration and the willingness to pursue one's dreams despite the lack of traditional tools or guidance. It emphasizes the importance of courage and determination in venturing into the unknown and achieving one's goals, suggesting that success often requires stepping outside of established boundaries and trusting one's instincts.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to encourage students to pursue their dreams.
Weep for me, whoever has charity, truth and justice! I did not come on this voyage for gain, honor or wealth, that is certain; for then the hope of all such things was dead. I came to Your Highnesses with honest purpose and sincere zeal; and I do not lie. I humbly beseech Your Highnesses that, if it please God to remove me hence, you will help me to go to Rome and on other pilgrimages.
I should not proceed by land to the East, as is customary, but by a Westerly route, in which direction we have hitherto no certain evidence that any one has gone.
Sailed this day nineteen leagues, and determined to count less than the true number, that the crew might not be dismayed if the voyage should prove long.
For the first time in the history of our country the majority of our people believe that the next five years will be worse than the past five years.
Future generations are not going to ask us what political party were you in. They are going to ask what did you do about it, when you knew the glaciers were melting.
A revolution is coming β a revolution which will be peaceful if we are wise enough; compassionate if we care enough; successful if we are fortunate enough β but a revolution which is coming whether we will it or not. We can affect its character; we cannot alter its inevitability.
If we are not a part of the solution, then we are the problem
Solyndra's failure isn't a reason for the government to give up on alternative energy, any more than the failure of Pets.com during the Internet bubble means that venture capital should steer clear of tech projects.
What the river was showing her now was that she could flow beyond the brokenness, redeem herself, and fuse once more.
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