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Life lessons Quote by Samuel Smiles

“Whilst writing all this, I have had in my mind a woman, whose strong and serious mind would not have failed to support me in these contentions. I lost her thirty years ago [I was a child then]--nevertheless, ever living in my memory, she follows me from age to age. She suffered with me in my…” quote by Samuel Smiles
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““Whilst writing all this, I have had in my mind a woman, whose strong and serious mind would not have failed to support me in these contentions. I lost her thirty years ago [I was a child then]--nevertheless, ever living in my memory, she follows me from age to age. She suffered with me in my poverty, and was not allowed to share my better fortune. When young, I made her sad, and now I cannot console her. I know not even where her bones are: I was too poor then to buy earth to bury her! And yet I owe her much. I feel deeply that I am the son of woman. Every instant, in my ideas and words [not to mention my features and gestures], I find again my mother in myself. It is my mother's blood which gives me the sympathy I feel for bygone ages, and the tender remembrance of all those who are now no more. What return then could I, who am myself advancing towards old age, make her for the many things I owe her? One, for which she would have thanked me--this protest in favour of women and mothers.””

Samuel Smiles

About This Quote

Source Book: Self-Help by Samuel Smiles, 1859

The author reflects on his mother's lasting influence, gratitude, and the moral duty to honor her through advocacy for women and mothers.

In simple terms: He feels indebted to his mother and wants to repay her by supporting women.

Key Takeaway

Honor maternal legacy by championing women's rights.

Themes

gratitude legacy advocacy family gender equality

Mood

reflective determined hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • writing about women's rights
  • personal reflection
  • community activism

Key Concepts

maternal influence social responsibility empathy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you translate personal loss into societal change?
  • What concrete steps honor a mother’s legacy?
A Different Perspective

His personal grief may limit broader impact without concrete action.

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