Language is an incredible thing. Within a page of text, phrases, sentences, and grammatical odds and ends, a few select words, placed together in just such a way, can leap from the page and grab the very heart of the reader. Little bits and pieces of language can be, for many of us, like a sudden burst of light, a kernel of personal truth realized, and recognition that, happily, we are not alone in feeling such a way about such a thing.
Thus, a quote is significant. It is a seemingly simple statement or sentence conveying so much more than would seem possible from merely following one familiar word by another. I am sure that I am not alone in having some personally favoured quotes. The quotes that follow here are a few of the ones that, over the years, have struck a real chord with me. I hope you too will be able to enjoy them.
Gandhi:
“We must be the change we wish to see in the world.”
Jane Goodall:
“If only we can overcome cruelty, to human and animal, with love and compassion we shall stand at the threshold of a new era in human moral and spiritual evolution – and realize, at last, our most unique quality: humanity.”
Rachel Carson:
“Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life.”
Mother Teresa:
“We can do no great things, only small things with great love.”
Albert Einstein:
“Widen the circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.”
Margaret Mead, Anthropologist:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Aldo Leopold:
“Do we realize that industry, which has been our good servant, might make a poor master?”
Rachel Carson:
“The human race is challenged more than ever before to demonstrate our mastery – not over nature but of ourselves.”
Jurgenne Primavera, Philippine scientist:
“We must not forget our hearts even as we apply our minds. We do not do science in a vacuum but against the grinding poverty and environment-unfriendly character of modern times, and we can use our scientific knowledge to reduce suffering and make life more full for fellow humans and creatures.”
Jane Goodall:
“By exercising free choice, by choosing what to buy, what not to buy, we have the power, collectively, to change the ethics of business, of industry. We have the potential to exert immense power for good:”
Nancy Turner:
“Perhaps one key to sustainable living is for us all to become rooted to a place:knowing and caring about places is probably the very best thing we can do for ourselves and for the earth”
David Suzuki:
“I certainly don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I have no shortage of questions.”
Nancy Turner:
“Although it is difficult to remain positive about the future of the world when we continuously witness so much wanton destruction, it is essential for all of us who cherish the environment in all its fragility and beauty to continue to be optimistic, to continue to completely enjoy the privilege of being part of Earth and its intricate systems.”
