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Quote by Toni Morrison

“All her effort was directed not on avoiding pain but on getting through it as quickly as possible.”

Work

This novel delves into the profound and haunting aftermath of slavery in the United States, focusing on the life of a woman named Sethe who has escaped from a plantation but is haunted by her past. The narrative intertwines the lives of former slaves and their descendants, examining the lasting impact of historical trauma on individuals and communities. more

Author

Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison is an American novelist known for her profound portrayal of the history and culture of African Americans. Her works often explore issues of race, gender, and identity, with her most famous novels being 'The Bluest Eye' and 'Sula'. more

“Do not forget what holds you back, Aeric had said. Fear. It did more than hold her back; it was her puppeteer. It orchestrated her every thought and movement, and like a compliant marionette, she played the part it wanted her to—lashing out when it gave the order, then freezing just as suddenly. On and on she danced for it, a prisoner to the strings she was bound by, finding it easier to submit than fight back. No more. Strong as her puppeteer was, she was stronger.”

Fear Strength Puppeteer

Book:Of the Sun and Sea

Source: Of the Sun and Sea

“Where is home? What is the way home? I am not sure of much but that the only way to find it is together.”

Home Together Community Compassion Strength Unity Coming Home Solidarity Togetherness

Author:Shellen Lubin

“I met Suffering on a quiet road, just as the sun was setting behind me. Its presence was heavy, like an old coat I had worn for too long. It walked beside me, its voice a whisper carried by the wind. "I know your name," it murmured. "I've been with you for years, through the nights you couldn’t sleep, through the prayers that felt unheard. I know every tear you've shed." I sighed, staring down at the worn path beneath my feet. "I know," I admitted. "You've been my shadow. But why do you stay? Why do you cling to me?" Suffering chuckled, low and knowing. "I don’t choose to stay," it said. "I grow where wounds refuse to heal. Where doubt lingers, where fear feeds the soul. I am not your captor, only your reflection." I stopped walking, the weight of its words settling into my bones. "But I’ve fought. I’ve tried. I’ve prayed for light, for peace. And yet, here you are." Suffering tilted its head, watching me. "And yet, here YOU are," it said. "Still standing. Still walking. Have you ever wondered why?" The question caught me off guard. I turned to face it, really looking for the first time. Suffering was not as menacing as I once believed. It was worn and tired, just like me. A teacher, perhaps, but not a master. "I see now," I said softly. "You are not my enemy. But you are not my home, either." Suffering gave a slow nod. "You understand then." I took a deep breath, straightening my shoulders as the sky deepened into night. "I do. And I choose to thrive." Suffering stilled, then smiled. “You’ve learned my lesson; now walk with God. I do not vanish, but I will bend, For you have chosen to keep growing, my friend.”

Life Lessons Suffering Strength Perseverance Endurance Sanjo Jendayi Deserie Johnson

Author:Sanjo Jendayi

“He who cannot betray himself has never met himself honestly.”

Inspirational Philosophy Wisdom Truth Lying Purpose Knowledge Strength Individuality Betrayal