“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.
Margaret Marcuson
I think for myself I prefer “Wise Old Woman.”
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.”