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Goal Quote by Marian Wright Edelman

“I was taught that the world had a lot of problems; that I could struggle and change them; that intellectual and material gifts brought the privilege and responsibility of sharing with others less fortunate; and that service is the rent each of us pays for living - the very purpose of life and not…” quote by Marian Wright Edelman
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“I was taught that the world had a lot of problems; that I could struggle and change them; that intellectual and material gifts brought the privilege and responsibility of sharing with others less fortunate; and that service is the rent each of us pays for living - the very purpose of life and not something you do in your spare time or after you have reached your personal goals.”

Marian Wright Edelman

About This Quote

Source speech: Commencement Address, 1999

The purpose of life is to serve others, using one’s gifts to address societal problems, not as an afterthought.

In simple terms: Life’s meaning is service to others.

Key Takeaway

Serve with your talents.

Themes

service responsibility social justice purpose

Mood

inspirational determined

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • career choices
  • community projects

Key Concepts

ethics philanthropy leadership

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you integrate service into daily life?
  • What gifts can you share now?
A Different Perspective

Service can be overwhelming without balance.

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