Life with most teenagers was like having a low-grade bladder infection. It hurts, but you had to tough it out.
Anne LamottRead
I sat down in the sand, breathless with shame and failure. God, I thought, some defender of the weak. Some freedom fighter: Joan of Arc in sunscreen.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the feelings of vulnerability and self-doubt that can accompany our efforts to make a difference.
In this quote, Anne Lamott humorously juxtaposes the image of Joan of Arc, a symbol of bravery and strength, with her own feelings of inadequacy and embarrassment in a modern context. It illustrates the internal struggle that many face when trying to stand up for others while grappling with their own perceived failures, ultimately reminding us that courage can coexist with vulnerability.
Themes
CourageFailureShameVulnerabilityDefenderFreedomFight
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about overcoming obstacles, one might use this quote to illustrate the importance of acknowledging our feelings of failure while still striving for change.
More from Anne Lamott
All quotes βOr you might shout at the top of your lungs or whisper into your sleeve, "I hate you, God." That is a prayer too, because it is real, it is truth, and maybe it is the first sincere thought you've had in months.
Anne LamottRead
Your problem is how you are going to spend this one odd and precious life you have been issued. Whether you're going to spend it trying to look good and creating the illusion that you have power over people and circumstances, or whether you are going to taste it, enjoy it and find out the truth about who you are.
Anne LamottRead
It is hard to remember that you are a cherished spiritual being when you're burping up apple fritters and Cheetos.
Anne LamottRead
Gorgeous, amazing things come into our lives when we are paying attention: mangoes, grandnieces, Bach, ponds. This happens more often when we have as little expectation as possible. If you say, "Well, that's pretty much what I thought I'd see," you are in trouble. At that point you have to ask yourself why you are even here. [...] Astonishing material and revelation appear in our lives all the time. Let it be. Unto us, so much is given. We just have to be open for business.
Anne LamottRead
...because when people have seen you at their worst, you don't have to put on the mask as much.
Anne LamottRead
Similar quotes
Danger is very real but fear is a choice.
Will SmithRead
...as your father, my instinct is to protect you ... Other people will want to protect you too. But remember that you are not a damsel in distress, waiting for some prince to rescue you. Forget the prince. With your brain and your resourcefulness, you can rescue yourself.
Brad MeltzerRead
Can we somehow muster the courage and steadfastness of purpose that characterized the pioneers of a former generation? Can you and I, in actual fact, be pioneers [today]?
Thomas S. MonsonRead
We cried and sobbed and wept and bled tears. But when we were finished, all we could do was continue living.
Nnedi OkoraforRead
I would rather die than do something which I know to be a sin, or to be against God's will.
Joan Of ArcRead
I am - Somebody. I may be poor, but I am - Somebody! I may be on welfare, but I am - Somebody! I may be uneducated, but I am - Somebody! I must be, I'm God's child. I must be respected and protected. I am black and I am beautiful! I am - Somebody! Soul Power!
Jesse JacksonRead