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I wasn't even sure why I was getting this medal, really…

“I wasn't even sure why I was getting this medal, really. No, that's not true. I knew why. It's like people you see sometimes, and you can't imagine what it would be like to be that person, whether it's somebody in a wheelchair or somebody who can't talk. Only, I know that I'm that person to other…” quote by R.J. Palacio
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““I wasn't even sure why I was getting this medal, really. No, that's not true. I knew why. It's like people you see sometimes, and you can't imagine what it would be like to be that person, whether it's somebody in a wheelchair or somebody who can't talk. Only, I know that I'm that person to other people, maybe to every single person in that whole auditorium. To me, though, I'm just me. An ordinary kid. But hey, if they want to give me a medal for being me, that's okay. I'll take it. I didn't destroy a Death Star or anything like that, but I did just get through the fifth grade. And that's not easy, even if you're not me.””

R.J. Palacio

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The speaker feels ordinary yet recognized, highlighting how personal achievements can be celebrated despite modest self‑view.

In simple terms: Ordinary kid gets a medal for finishing fifth grade.

Key Takeaway

Accept recognition while staying humble.

Themes

humility recognition self‑esteem

Mood

proud reflective

Type

inspirational personal

When to use this quote

  • school graduation
  • award ceremonies
  • public acknowledgment
  • personal milestones

Key Concepts

identity achievement perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance pride and humility?
  • What does recognition mean to you?
A Different Perspective

May overlook deeper struggles behind simple achievements.

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