“It Is More Intelligent to Hope Rather Than to Fear” Eleanor Roosevelt

“Surely, in the light of history, it is more intelligent to hope rather than to fear, to try rather than not to try. For one thing we know beyond all doubt: Nothing has ever been achieved by the person who says, `It can’t be done.'” Eleanor Roosevelt, You Learn By Living (1960)

Eleanor Roosevelt inspires me. I just started reading Joseph Lash’s book, Eleanor: The Years Alone. Lash suggests that when Franklin Roosevelt died, Eleanor Roosevelt’s first assumption was that her public life was over. Her expectation was far from true: she continued to influence the United States and the world for over 15 years. The Eleanor Roosevelt Papers Project is a great source for information about her life, her writings, and quotable quotes, including the one above. When I was feeling crabby about turning 50 a few months ago I came across the timeline on this website, and realized she turned 50 in 1934. She had a wide influence for almost 30 more years. I was encouraged, and continue to be inspired by her courage and determination.

2 replies on ““It Is More Intelligent to Hope Rather Than to Fear” Eleanor Roosevelt

  • IGalindo

    Lash’s biography of E.R. is a great read. Crabby at 50? One of the BEST things about turning 50 is that you don’t have to apologize for being crabby! I myself revel in my priviledged status of “Old Coot.”

    Reply

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