I can't on my own change the regime in South Africa or teach the Palestinians to learn to live with the Israelies, but I can start with me.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Personal change is the first step before trying to influence larger political conflicts.
- In plain terms
- Start with yourself before trying to change nations.
- What can you take from it?
- Self‑improvement precedes broader activism.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does personal change affect larger movements?
- What personal habits can support peace?
Another view
Individual change alone may have limited impact on systemic issues.
More from River Phoenix
When I was old enough to realize all meat was killed, I saw it as an irrational way of using our power, to take a weaker thing and mutilate it. It was like the…
Permalink to quote #11 Everything is ironic to me. There are moments I find hysterical, but I'm probably the only one who would find that, except for a few people.
Permalink to quote #13 Animals are not our playthings. We are on this earth to protect them. It's our duty.
Permalink to quote #10
Related quotes
Under the influence of politicians, masses of people tend to ascribe the responsibility for wars to those who wield power at any given time. In World War I it …
Wilhelm ReichWilhelm Reich quote #36 'The world is the most dangerous place it's ever been now because of what our country has done, and is doing, and we have to take it back.'
Ramsey ClarkRamsey Clark quote #2 We're trying to sell peace, like a product, you know, and sell it like people sell soap or soft drinks. And it's the only way to get people aware that peace is…
John LennonJohn Lennon quote #10