The Words That Stay With Us: A Reflection on Quotes That Shape Our Lives
Hello, lovely readers! I’ve always believed in the transformative power of words. As the owner of Novus Publishing House, it was part of my vision to create a platform that inspires others to share and reflect on their words through writing. Books have a way of capturing truths that resonate beyond the page; truths that stay with us, guiding us through life’s ups and downs. Today, I want to share some of my most cherished quotes from books; those little nuggets of wisdom that have touched my heart and, I hope, will inspire you too.
You see, quotes are like tiny beacons of light. They illuminate our path, remind us of what truly matters, and sometimes, spark a much-needed shift in perspective. Whether we’re facing challenges, celebrating victories, or simply seeking encouragement, the right words can make all the difference.
Some of My Favourite Quotes
Whilst I could write a whole book on my favourite quotes and their inspiration to me personally, today I want to focus on a handful that provide a human lesson. A universal lesson that, with application, could offer changes to so many of us.
One quote that has always stayed with me is from ‘Jane Eyre’ by Charlotte Brontë:
"I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will."
How evocative are those words? To me, this quote is a powerful reminder of our inherent strength and the importance of embracing our independence. In today’s world, where we’re often pulled in many directions: by expectations, responsibilities, or self-doubt, this line encourages us to stand firm in our identity. It’s a call to claim our agency, to recognize that our choices are within our control, and that our freedom begins with believing in ourselves.
I encourage you today to pause for a moment and ask: Are you living true to your authentic self? Are you nurturing your independence and trusting your inner voice? If not, what small step can you take today to reclaim your freedom? Sometimes, just a gentle reminder like this can inspire us to live more intentionally.
Another quote that has deeply impacted me comes from my secondary school reading, the wonderful, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee:
"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it."
This quote is a beautiful lesson in empathy. In our busy, often divided world, it’s easy to judge or dismiss others without truly understanding their stories. But Harper Lee’s words gently remind us that compassion begins with empathy. When we seek to understand, rather than judge, we open the door to kindness and connection. I learned this quote for my secondary school ‘O level’ exams in 1984, and the words have been etched onto my eyelids ever since. Simple words that have resonated for over 40years and have served me well; don’t get me wrong, I am no angel and have often fallen foul of living these words consistently, but they have served as my conscience when I haven’t lived by them and served as my guide to help me change and grow.
I invite you to think about someone in your life who may need your understanding today. How might your world change if you chose to see things from their perspective? Sometimes, a simple act of kindness rooted in empathy can create ripples of change far beyond what we ever imagined.
A quote that continues to inspire hope comes from ‘The Little Prince’ by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry:
"And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."
This tender reminder encourages us to look beyond appearances and surface judgments. It invites us to trust our hearts and seek the deeper truths: truths about ourselves, others, and life’s meaning. In our fast-paced, often superficial culture, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s visible and tangible. But this quote gently urges us to pause, listen to our intuition, and pay attention to what truly matters inside.
For me, this has meant learning to trust my feelings, to value the quiet voice of my soul. I encourage you to take time each day to listen to your heart. What does it tell you about your dreams, your fears, your purpose? When we listen more closely, we open ourselves to a richer, more authentic life.
Over the years, I’ve also come to cherish two more quotes that have particular significance in my corporate working life. The first is, “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
Many believe this was first famously spoken by Mahatma Gandhi, though some suggest it echoes a sentiment from Al Gore’s speeches about environmental responsibility. Regardless of who said it first, its message is clear: true transformation begins within us. I’ve spent 36 years working in leadership, and I can tell you firsthand that real change starts with personal responsibility. We can’t wait for others to lead the way; we must be the ones to embody the change we wish to see.
So today, I ask you - what change are you longing for? How can you be that change in your home, your community, or even your own heart? Sometimes, just one small act of kindness, courage, or honesty can ripple outward and create a wave of transformation.
The second quote I have used relentlessly in work, to help others going through work pressures, changes, redundancy or loss is from Mitch Albom’s ‘The Five People You Meet in Heaven’
"All endings are also beginnings; we just don’t know it at the time."*
This beautiful insight reminds us that even when life feels like it’s falling apart, or something has come to an end, it’s often setting us up for something new. Growth is often hidden in the quiet moments of transition. I’ve experienced this myself; times of loss or disappointment that eventually led me to new opportunities, new passions, and deeper understanding.
So, I encourage you, when faced with an ending, take a breath and ask yourself: What new beginning might this be preparing me for? Sometimes, the hardest goodbyes are just the universe’s way of paving the way for something even better.
And finally, I want to leave you with one of my most personal favourite quotes—one that I return to again and again and aligns so perfectly with my world of storytelling:
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." Maya Angelou, From ‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.’
This beautiful quote is a gentle, yet powerful reminder that your story matters. If you’ve been holding back your truth, your dreams, or your voice, I encourage you today - be brave enough to share it. Your story is a gift, not just to yourself but to the world. Every one of us has a story worth telling, and by sharing ours, we help others find their voice too.
In closing, dear friends, I want you to remember:
Your words, your stories, your kindness—they have the power to change lives, including your own. So, keep reading, keep dreaming, and keep sharing your voice. The world needs your light, now more than ever.
Thank you for walking this journey with me today. I believe in you, and I believe in the boundless potential within each of us to grow, to change, and to shine.
With all my heart,
Mandy x
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