Howard Thurman was an influential American theologian, mystic, poet, and philosopher. His work has been a powerful source of inspiration for many generations of people who have sought to live lives of meaning and purpose. He is best known for his thought-provoking and often profound quotes that explore the interconnectedness of all life, the power of love, and the importance of community. His words have offered countless individuals hope, solace, and guidance in times of struggle and joy alike. In this article we will explore some of his most memorable quotes and consider their relevance to our own lives today.”Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Howard Thurman
Howard Thurman Quotes on Love
“Love is the greatest power on earth. It conquers all things. It never fails.” – Howard Thurman. This powerful quote by Howard Thurman speaks volumes about his understanding of love, and how it has the power to bring people together.
Thurman believed that love was deeply connected to compassion, understanding, and acceptance; and that true love must be unconditional in order to bring about lasting change and transformation. He believed that when we are able to truly accept others for who they are, we can discover our shared humanity and create a world of peace and harmony.
Thurman also understood the importance of self-love, which he saw as essential for creating meaningful relationships with others. He believed that we must learn to love ourselves fully before we can expect to experience true love from others in our lives. He said, “Love yourself first and then you will know how to love others.”
Thurman’s powerful words remind us of the importance of cultivating a compassionate attitude towards ourselves and others, so that we can create meaningful connections with those around us. His quotes on love serve as a reminder that when we open our hearts to one another, anything is possible.
Howard Thurman Quotes on Life
Howard Thurman was a renowned theologian, author, philosopher, and civil rights leader. He is best remembered for his influential works on spirituality and social justice. His writings have inspired generations of people around the world to lead lives of purpose and meaning. Here are some of his most inspiring quotes on life:
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
This quote speaks to the power of individual action in making a difference in the world. We all have unique gifts and talents that we can use to help bring about positive change. By tapping into our passions and living our lives with purpose, we can make an impact in our communities and beyond.
“There is something in every one of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself. It is the only true guide you will ever have.”
This quote speaks to the importance of trusting your own inner voice when making decisions in life. It reminds us to take time to reflect on our values and beliefs so that we can be sure we are staying true to ourselves at all times.
“A single act has power to awaken new possibilities within us.”
This quote speaks to the potential we all have for transformation through simple acts of kindness or courage. Even small acts can be powerful catalysts for growth and change within ourselves as well as others around us.
“The tragedy of life is often not in our failure, but rather in our complacency; not in our doing too much, but rather in our doing too little; not in our living above nature, but rather in our sinking beneath it.”
This quote serves as an important reminder that complacency can be a great enemy when it comes to personal growth and progress. Taking action is key if we want to move forward and achieve greater things with our lives.
Howard Thurman Quotes on Courage
“Courage is always a vital element in the quest for personal growth and development. It is the inner strength that enables us to take risks and move forward with confidence. Howard Thurman, an American theologian, author, and civil rights leader, was an advocate for courage in the pursuit of a meaningful life. Here are some of his inspiring quotes on courage.”
“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
“The beginning of wisdom is found in doubting; by doubting we come to inquiry, and by inquiry we arrive at truth.”
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”
“It takes courage to love, but pain through love is the purifying fire which those who love generously know.”
“There are times when we stop, we sit still. We listen and breezes from a whole other world begin to whisper.”
“If it falls your lot to be a street sweeper, go out to sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. Sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will have to pause and say: Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.”
Howard Thurman Quotes on Hope
Hope is an essential part of life, and Howard Thurman’s quotes on hope are an excellent reminder to never give up. For Thurman, hope was closely tied to faith and belief in oneself. He believed that hope was a necessary element of life, and he wanted to inspire people to keep going no matter what. Here are some of his most inspiring words on hope:
“Don’t be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.”
“It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it.”
“When the world pushes you to your knees, you’re in the perfect position to pray.”
“If we accept the premise that all people are one, then love is the only logical conclusion.”
“The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight but they, while their companions slept were toiling upward in the night.”
“Faith is total acceptance of a truth which we may not yet be able to prove.”
“The greatest discovery of any generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitude.”
“You cannot have a positive life and a negative mind.”
“The key question isn’t ‘What fosters creativity?’ But it is why in God’s name isn’t everyone creative?”
Howard Thurman Quotes on Service
Service is an essential part of the life of every human being. Howard Thurman was an American theologian, civil rights activist, and author who believed in the power of service to improve lives. He was a firm believer that through service we can enrich our own lives as well as those around us. Here are some inspiring quotes from Howard Thurman about the power of service:
“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”
“Don’t wait for someone to bring you flowers. Plant your own garden and decorate your own soul.”
“We can learn to live together in harmony, if we only realize that we all have something to contribute.”
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
“Service is not something you do, it’s something you are.”
These wise words from Howard Thurman remind us that when we come together in service, we can make a positive difference in our lives and the lives of others. Service is an essential part of living a meaningful life – one filled with joy, connection, and purpose.
Howard Thurman Quotes on Friendship
“Friendship is a mutual, voluntary, and freely chosen relationship between two or more persons.” This quote from Howard Thurman reminds us that friendship is something that is both needed and desired in our lives. It can bring us great joy and happiness as well as provide us with an opportunity to learn and grow. A true friend will be there to listen and offer support when needed, as well as be there to celebrate the good times.
Thurman also said, “The capacity for friendship is God’s way of apologizing for our families.” This quote speaks to the importance of having close relationships outside of our family unit that we can turn to when our family relationships are not fulfilling or supportive enough. It also reminds us that friendship is a gift from God and should be cherished and nurtured.
In another quote, Thurman states, “In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, for in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.” This quote highlights the importance of friendship in providing us with joy, comfort, and renewal. True friends are able to bring out the best in each other by sharing stories, laughing together, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Finally, Thurman wrote “Friendship is one of the grand fundamental principles of ‘Moral Science’; it is one of those cardinal points which constitute its very essence.” Here he emphasizes that friendship should not only be valued but also actively pursued as it has many positive impacts on our lives. It can help us find meaning in life through shared experiences and moments of connection.
Through these quotes, Howard Thurman has reminded us of the power of friendship—a power that can bring peace and joy into our lives when we nurture it properly. Whether you have a few close friends or many acquaintances, remember to cherish them all equally as they are gifts from God himself!
Howard Thurman Quotes on Positivity
The renowned African-American philosopher, author, and religious leader, Howard Thurman, has had a profound influence on generations of people throughout the world. His uplifting words of wisdom and his inspiring messages of positivity have inspired many to strive for greatness. Here are some of his most impactful quotes on positivity:
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
This quote emphasizes that by living authentically and being true to oneself, one can create positive change in the world. It encourages us to focus on our passions and pursue them with conviction and determination.
“The greatest discovery of any generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitude.”
This quote speaks to the power of attitude in shaping our lives. It shows us that by changing our perspective and cultivating an optimistic outlook towards life, we can achieve great things.
“We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.”
This quote speaks to the importance of learning how to forgive others as well as ourselves in order to cultivate love in our lives. Forgiveness allows us to move forward without carrying resentment or grudges, which can weigh us down emotionally and spiritually.
“If you cannot be a poet, be the poem.”
This quote encourages us to live fully in each moment and strive for excellence in all aspects of life; whether it’s work or relationships or hobbies or anything else we may be involved in – we must strive for excellence because it is through this that we become truly alive.
Conclusion
Howard Thurman’s quotes have been an inspiration to many, providing solace and guidance in difficult times. His words are a reminder that we can find strength and joy in even the most challenging of circumstances. He understood the power of love, compassion, and understanding can have in our lives, and his words will continue to be a source of comfort for generations to come.
Thurman’s quotes are more relevant now than ever before as we navigate a world filled with uncertainty. His message of peace and understanding is one that we should all strive to live by each day. By embracing the wisdom of Howard Thurman, we can draw on our own inner strength to face whatever life throws at us.
In conclusion, Howard Thurman’s quotes have touched many lives over the years and will continue to do so for generations to come. We can all draw strength from his words as we strive to make the world a better place for all.