Inspirational Quote
Quotes have a unique power—they can make us pause and think, warm our hearts, lift our spirits, and even guide us when we’re uncertain of our path. They offer hope, strength, and clarity in just a few words. In this ongoing series, I share quotes that inspire and provoke reflection. Today, let’s explore a thought-provoking quote by E.E. Cummings.
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”
E.E. Cummings
E.E. Cummings’ quote resonates deeply. As children, many of us experience our parents steering us toward paths we might not choose ourselves. Most often, this guidance isn’t meant to restrict us but to lead us toward what they believe is best for our future. But many times, these choices aren’t the best fit for our own journey and can lead us down roads where we don’t truly belong, resulting in a discontented or unhappy life.
Sometimes we’re not aware of all the options available to us, and when faced with limited choices, we can end up stepping into roles that don’t truly reflect who we are. That was my experience—I was presented with just two paths: nursing or teaching. While both are noble and fulfilling careers for many, neither felt like my true calling. At the time, I simply went along with what was offered, unaware that there were many other possibilities awaiting me. Because of that choice, I felt my true calling in life was lost or missed—while I was walking down a path that was someone else’s plan for my life, not mine.
I believe that when we chase dreams that aren’t truly our own, we lose touch with our real aspirations and fall short of who we’re meant to be. We all face turning points in life—some easy and positive, others deeply challenging. It’s during these moments that we have the chance to re-evaluate our path and make changes to become more authentic and aligned with who we were truly meant to be. The moment we realize we’re on a path not wholly our own is the moment we gain the power to change direction. It’s never too late to decide that today is the day to embrace who you really are, not the person others expect you to be.
My biggest turning point came with an unexpected divorce—a deeply difficult time that took years to move beyond. However, in hindsight, it was also the best thing that could have happened. It pushed me off a path where I wasn’t truly living my own life but existing in the shadow of someone else’s expectations, with little attention to my own goals and dreams.
I may not be a spring chicken and have been an adult for many years, but now feels like the right time. It’s a moment to gently explore who I truly am and begin following my own dreams and wishes. It’s a time to find the courage to tune out the noise of others’ opinions and trust my own path. Most of all, it’s time to embrace and enjoy the life I’m building.
No matter the path you’ve traveled so far, you have the power to gather the courage and become the person you truly want to be. Wherever you are in life, I hope you take the time to explore your dreams and start following them. It’s never too late to embrace your authentic self and create a life that brings you joy and fulfillment.
KathieyV