The metaphor of “standing on the shoulders of giants” means getting a new perspective by benefitting from the knowledge and experience of those who have gone before us. Never is this more clear to me than when I hear or read a quote that sparks me when I read it.
Sometimes it’s because it rings true to my past experience: “Yes! That’s it! That’s what I’ve been trying to crystallize into words.” Sometimes it’s because it gives me a completely new way of looking at something I haven’t seen before: “Wow! I never would have thought of that.”
Either way, quotes (and the artists, writers and thinkers they come from) are amazing windows into a deeper experience of life.
I don’t think I’ve ever met a single person who hasn’t had, in their heart of hearts, a very inspiring quote that got them through some kind of hard time in their life. Most people are willing (even eager) to share them with me when I’ve asked.
In all the handouts I’ve prepared for this series, you’ll find some of my favourite quotes.
Some of you have commented on them, sometimes by saying they’re your favourites, too. That’s not unusual. I think this group is “self-selecting” for looking for a more meaningful experience of life. Sometimes you’ve said: “Thanks so much for that quote! It was just what I needed at that moment.”
Rest assured that at the time I added it to my personal quote collection it was exactly the same for me.
I’ve been half-heartedly listening to a radio interview and then been stopped in my tracks by something someone said, scrambling for a scrap of paper to write it on, and (hopefully) being able to find more about it by searching the internet.
I’ve written down inspiring quotes from a wide variety of sources ~ I’d never turn down a chance to stand of the shoulders of giants ~ especially new giants.
Ways to be inspired:
- Find a quote that really speaks to you. Write it out, tape it somewhere where you will see it often. I find having it near my desk or computer is best. For you, it might be somewhere else.
- Create a vision board (or a journal spread) of things that inspire you. Keep adding layers as you find new things.
- Collect your favourite quotes into a Quote Journal. Keep it where you can dip into it from time to time, and share it with others.
- Listen to people talking around you every day. People can’t help but tell their stories. When you listen closely, you’ll see that everyone really wants to be connected to others in their life.
What I want for you in this class: "Be inspired by words and recreate them in interesting ways."
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