I've never been convinced that experience is linear, circular, or even random. It just is. I try to put it in some kind of order to extract meaning from it, to bring meaning to it.
Toni Cade BambaraRead
(M)aybe we too busy being flowers or fairies or strawberries instead of something honest and worthy of respect . . . you know . . . like being people.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of authenticity and being true to oneself rather than adopting superficial roles.
Toni Cade Bambara's quote reflects on the tendency of individuals to embody fanciful or unrealistic personas rather than embracing their genuine humanity. By suggesting that we often get lost in the metaphorical roles of 'flowers,' 'fairies,' or 'strawberries,' she urges us to confront our true selves and the respect that comes with being honest and authentic.
Themes
AuthenticitySelfRespectHumanityHonesty
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about self-acceptance, you might quote this to illustrate the importance of being true to oneself.
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Write a lot and hit the streets. A writer who doesn't keep up with what's out there ain't gonna be out there.
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I'll be damned if I want most folks out there to do unto me what they do unto themselves.
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The dream is real, my friends. The failure to make it work is the unreality.
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