Words of inspiration from women (from “A Woman’s Book of Inspiration”) for a new semester

“When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you until it seems that you cannot hold on for a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time when the tide will turn.” — Harriet Beecher Stowe

Harriet Beecher Stowe published her anti-slavery novel, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” in 1851. 

There are going to be so many overwhelming moments this semester (and generally in life). It’s important to remember that endurance doesn’t mean you’re sprinting, it just means you’re going as fast as you can. It might be a walk, jog or run, but progress is progress, no matter how fast you’re going.

“If you have made mistakes, even serious ones, there is always another chance for you. What we call failure is not the falling down but the staying down.” — Mary Pickford

Remember even if you mess up, it’s not the end for you.

“A depressing and difficult passage has prefaced every new page I have turned in life.” — Charlotte Brontë

Charlotte Brontë is known for her Victorian novels, including “Jane Eyre,” published in 1847. Change is scary, especially when it’s happening to you on a spiritual or emotional level. I find it very comforting to know that someone as successful as Charlotte Brontë has experienced those shifts before exciting new chapters in her life. 

“I would like to learn, or remember, how to live.” — Annie Dillard

Right now, one of the best things we can do for ourselves is to allow breathing room. According to The Wellbeing Thesis, “Micro-breaks, lunchtime breaks and longer breaks, have all been shown to have a positive relationship with wellbeing and productivity. By taking regular breaks you can boost your performance.” So, this semester, learn from your courses and remember how to live. 

“I think when we experience emotion we should delve into it and live through it. We are always trying to shut off pain or control our happiness. Why? To live is to feel.” — Gwyneth Paltrow

Regardless of how your semester goes, remember that your emotions are valid. Feelings demand to be felt, so feel them.

Emily White is a junior studying English and broadcast journalism. She is currently serving as the senior writer for the Lifestyles section of the Statesman.

—emily.white@usu.edu