"I do not mean to be sentimental about suffering--enough is certainly as good as a feast--but people who cannot suffer can never grow up, can never discover who they are. That man who is forced each day to snatch his manhood, his identity, out of the fire of human cruelty that rages to destroy it knows, if he survives his effort, and even if he does not survive it, something about himself and human life that no school on earth--and, indeed, no church--can teach. He achieves his own authority, and that is unshakeable."--James Baldwin
4 comments:
The last line is amazing: "He achieves his own authority, and that is unshakeable." James Baldwin's wisdom and insight are limitless. Your post inspires me to read his writings with pleasure and awe once again.
I honor and adore the man for his truth, brilliance and his determination not to hate. The quote is from "The Fire Next Time" and the photo was taken by Bob Adelman at the service for the "four little girls" who were killed during the Birmingham church bombing. The pain on his face is palpable.
So true! Thanks for sharing this quote! I can relate to this one, sadly!
I thought you might, Ajey, my thoughtful talented young friend. Hope all is well.
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