Jumping Over Hurdles Quotes

We've searched our database for all the quotes and captions related to Jumping Over Hurdles. Here they are! All 40 of them:

I wanted to tell her that I was getting better, because that was supposed to be the narrative of illness: It was a hurdle you jumped over, or a battle you won. Illness is a story told in the past tense.
John Green (Turtles All the Way Down)
When faced with a hurdle then give it all you've got to jump over it because it can't be done in two stages.
Stephen Richards
Have you ever had a moment where you knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you were in the right place? That you were on the right journey? Maybe the sense that you’d crossed a boundary, jumped a hurdle, and somehow, after facing some unconquerable mountain, found yourself suddenly on the other side of it? When the night was warm and the wind was cool, and a song carried through the quiet streets around you. When you felt the entire world around you, and you were part of it—of the hum of it—and everything was good. Contentment, I suppose, is the simple explanation for it. But it seems more than that, thicker than that, some unity of purpose, some sense of being truly, honestly, for that moment, at home. Those moments never seem to last long enough. The song ends, the breeze stills, the worries and fears creep in again and you’re left trying to move forward, but glancing back at the mountain behind you, wondering how you managed to cross it, afraid you really didn’t—that the bulk and shadow over your shoulder might evaporate and re-form before you, and you’d be faced with the burden of crossing it again. The song ends, and you stare at the quiet, dark house in front of you, and you grasp the doorknob, and walk back into your life.
Chloe Neill
I refused to continue to trip over hurdles that I knew I could jump over. I had to ask God to give me a tad bit more height, strength, determination, and endurance to jump over the hurdles and complete this journey.
Charlena E. Jackson (No Cross No Crown)
Any woman of virtue won't be easy to come by. She will make you jump over hurdles to reach her.
Shannon L. Alder
I'd spent half of my life building a million obstacles to put in the way of love. Yet when I met Annalise, all the hurdles did was show me how much she was worth jumping over every one of them.
Vi Keeland (We Shouldn't)
Hurdles are there to jump over not to stand in front and wonder
J. Wilson
Life hands out challenges that we all unwillingly accept. We have no choice in the acceptance really because that is essentially what life is; a series of unavoidable challenges thrown our way, and how we assess them, deal with them, and progress through them, shapes our life to be what it will be. Some of us assess challenges in different ways, either seeing them as a hurdle that one can easily jump over, or as a brick wall that seems impossible to climb.
K.M. Golland (Satisfaction (Temptation, #2))
Lack of fairness is not an excuse for bad behavior; it is simply information. If you are required to jump five hurdles to everyone else's three, and if you are unable to remove the extra ones, you are left with two options. You can remain at the starting line, ranting and raving in a fit of unproductive indignation. Or you can jump over those hurdles. Either way, the race will end when it ends. Where you're standing when it does, however, is completely up to you.
Lynn Toler (My Mother's Rules: A Practical Guide to Becoming an Emotional Genius)
if you want to achieve consistent performance, you need both parts of a 20 Mile March: a lower bound and an upper bound, a hurdle that you jump over and a ceiling that you will not rise above, the ambition to achieve and the self-control to hold back.  
Jim Collins (Great by Choice: Uncertainty, Chaos, and Luck—Why Some Thrive Despite Them All)
He would like to be capable of writing as he thinks, quickly, without effort, the word as agile and dynamic as athletes in a race, jumping over hurdles, one after the other, go, go, go, flying towards the finishing post, faster than the disgust limping behind him.
Filippo Bologna (The Parrots)
Making these choices [to attend school instead of skipping], as it turned out, wasn't about willpower. I always admired people who “willed” themselves to do something, because I have never felt I was one of them. If sheer will were enough by itself, it would have been enough a long time ago, back on University Avenue, I figured. It wasn't, not for me anyway. Instead, I needed something to motivate me. I needed a few things that I could think about in my moments of weakness that would cause me to throw off the blanket and walk through the front door. More than will, I needed something to inspire me. One thing that helped was a picture I kept in mind, this image that I used over and over whenever I was faced with these daily choices. I pictured a runner running on a racetrack. The image was set in the summertime and the racetrack was a reddish orange, divided in white racing stripes to flag the runners’ columns. Only, the runner in my mental image did not run alongside others; she ran solo, with no one watching her. And she did not run a free and clear track, she ran one that required her to jump numerous hurdles, which made her break into a heavy sweat under the sun. I used this image every time I thought of things that frustrated me: the heavy books, my crazy sleep schedule, the question of where I would sleep and what I would eat. To overcome these issues I pictured my runner bolting down the track, jumping hurdles toward the finish line. Hunger, hurdle. Finding sleep, hurdle, schoolwork, hurdle. If I closed my eyes I could see the runner’s back, the movement of her sinewy muscles, glistening with sweat, bounding over the hurdles, one by one. On mornings when I did not want to get out of bed, I saw another hurdle to leap over. This way, obstacles became a natural part of the course, an indication that I was right where I needed to be, running the track, which was entirely different from letting obstacles make me believe I was off it. On a racing track, why wouldn't there be hurdles? With this picture in mind—using the hurdles to leap forward toward my diploma—I shrugged the blanket off, went through the door, and got myself to school.
Liz Murray (Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard)
But how do you feel about tacos?” I cross my arms. He studies me before huffing out another laugh. “I fucking love tacos.” I relax, glad one of the biggest relationship hurdles we’ve ever faced in our five minutes of dating has been jumped over. “That could have been a deal-breaker, dude.” I smile like I’m joking. But I’m really not. Kade’s really hot. But…Tacos.
Jenna Myles (Kade (The Brash Brothers, #1))
My soul is no different from a Lotus flower. I didn’t start my journey in fresh water because my environment was not pleasant. Just like a Lotus flower, my life was surrounded by insects, debris, and so many unpleasant things and people. However, just like the Lotus petals are never contaminated by the murky water, my core remained pure. Just like the Lotus flower, I came from a place of suffering. However, I remained true to myself. I have overcome many obstacles in my life. I am proud of myself—because this time, I jumped a little higher over the hurdles. I have finished the never-ending race. I have officially crossed the finish line and have a fresh start! I am renewed, and I am loved!
Charlena E. Jackson (Pinwheels and Dandelions)
Like running the hurdles. Work so hard, jump over every one, fast, high enough but no higher, because you can't afford to hang in the air. And then, when the race is over, you're dripping with sweat, either they beat you or you beat them ... and then a couple of guys come out and move the hurdles out of the way. Turns out they were nothing. All that work to jump over them, but now they're gone.
Orson Scott Card (Enchantment)
We’ve been through so much together I’ve seen you grow into someone you thought you’d never be I’ve seen you endure challenges most will never see Mocked by your peers for being from a different culture Feeling deserted, you searched for ways to adapt and become accepted You resorted to fitting in instead of making a stand for your true self You’ve made countless mistakes in pursuit of acceptance To me, it was undeniable you were meant to be a misfit You dove into finding your talents and utilizing them Unapologetically, you began making your mark during your middle school years Discovering your skills as a runner made a way for you to flee from the norm Racing hard and your pace in this life Hurdle after hurdle, you never stopped jumping and running towards the finish line You lost focus numerous times running someone else’s race, matching their suicidal pace, but over time you opened your eyes and ran your race in your lane You used failures as your stepping stone to climb up to where you are now and where you’re going I love you, I love you even when you hate you Thank you for staying true to you, never justifying your flaws and running away from your consequences You’ve taught me so much. I’m proud of you I love you so much. Thank you for being a friend, an example, a brother Thank you for being the man you are now. I love you, man in the mirror
Pierre Alex Jeanty (Unspoken Feelings of a Gentleman)
Someone stop them!” I yell. No one does. I think about Porter surrounded by people that horrible day on the beach years ago, when no one would help him save his dad from the shark. If strangers won’t help when someone is dying, they’re definitely not going to stop two kids from running out of a museum. Pulse swishing in my temples, I race around the information booth, pumping my arms, and watch them split up again. Polo is heading for the easy way out: the main exit, where there’s (1) only a set of doors to go through, and (2) Hector, the laziest employee on staff. But Backpack is headed for the ticketing booth and the connecting turnstiles. Freddy should be there, but no one’s entering the museum, so he’s instead chatting it up with Hector. The turnstiles are unmanned. Like a pro hustler who’s never paid a subway fare, Backpack hurdles over the turnstiles in one leap. Impressive. Or it would have been, had his backpack not slipped off his shoulder and the strap not caught on one of the turnstile arms. While he struggles to free it, I take the easier route and make for the wheelchair access gate. I unhitch the latch. He frees the strap. I slip through the gate, and just as he’s turning to run, I lurch forward and— I jump on his back. We hit the ground together. The air whooshes out of my lungs and my knee slams into tile. He cries out. I don’t. I freaking got him.
Jenn Bennett (Alex, Approximately)
To Polish the Gold & Help Others Shine . . . Catch people doing things right: Outstanding leaders know that people will be more engaged, perform at higher levels, and be more loyal when they are appreciated and celebrated. Jeff West, international speaker and author of The Unexpected Tour Guide, shares that “People will jump over high hurdles, fight fires and break through walls for leaders who find them doing things right. Building that kind of chemistry is essential if a team is going to jell.” Capitalize on the opportunity to notice what people are doing right at work and at home and they will deliver their best. As the old saying goes, “A person who feels appreciated will always do more than expected.
Susan C. Young (The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact (The Art of First Impressions for Positive Impact, #4))
We are social animals. We have to live within the society. So it is very necessary to have the right kind of relation with and attitude toward the society.” “Please pay more attention about inner value.
That is the ultimate source of happiness and success for life.” The Dalai Lama “You can’t know wisdom, you have to be it.” Ram Dass “Constructively dealing with adversities and bravely jumping educational hurdles can quickly fine-tune a person to Nature’s Law. We may look to saints and role models for inspiration but we are the ones who make our own effort, and then make our own progress. We may lean on heroes and deities, but the person whose hurdle it is must always do the final and decisive leap over that hurdle.” Tenzin Kharma Trinley
Dalai Lama XIV
Have you ever had a moment where you knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you were in the right place? That you were on the right journey? Maybe the sense that you'd crossed a boundary, jumped a hurdle, and somehow, after facing some unconquerable mountain, found yourself suddenly on the other side of it? When the night was warm, and the wind was cool, and a song carried through the quiet streets around you. When you felt the entire world around you, and you were part of it - of the hum of it - and everything was good. Contentment, I suppose, is the simple explanation for it. But it seems more than that, thicker than that, some unity of purpose, some sense of being truly, honestly, for that moment, at home. Those moments never seem to last long enough. The song ends, the breeze stills, the worries and fears creep in again and you're left trying to move forward, but glancing back at the mountain behind you, wondering how you managed to cross it, afraid you really didn't - that the bulk and shadow over your shoulder might evaporate and re-form before you, and you'd be faced with the burden of crossing it again.
Chloe Neill (Some Girls Bite (Chicagoland Vampires, #1))
Willie wrote one asking her when she was going to meet him at the barn. At the bottom of the note, he drew a really neat spider in a web. Then he folded the sheet up small, addressed it, and passed it to the kid next to him. Milton was sitting along the postal route. The note got to him just as Mrs. Tealso stepped out of the room to talk to the teacher across the hall. Willie couldn’t believe it when he saw Milton unfolding the note. “Hey, Marla,” Milton said loud enough to get the whole class’s attention. “Willie wants to know if you’ll meet him in the barn. Will ya, huh?” Boys hooted as if the question meant something dirty. When Willie saw Marla cringing in her seat, he went berserk. He hurdled a desk and jumped Milton to grab the note away from him, but Milton turned and hunched over so that Willie found himself hoisted onto Milton’s back with his feet off the ground. Just then Mrs. Tealso returned. She caught Willie clinging to Milton as if he were stuck midway in a leapfrog game. “Willie Feldman! What has gotten into you? Step outside in the hall and stay there until I finish taking attendance.” Out in the hall, Willie leaned against the door, which Mrs. Tealso had firmly shut behind him. Some friend Milton was turning out to be! Boy, would Willie be in trouble if Dad heard about this. The instant Mrs. Tealso gave him a chance, before she could decide it was all his fault, Willie had better spit out a convincing explanation.
C.S. Adler (Willie, the Frog Prince)
Your faith will be tested right before your breakthrough. Keep your head held high and remain positive; regardless of what hurdles may come your way. You have the ability to successfully jump over them.
Robin S. Baker
I’d admit I liked others to take control, I was happy for it. The world offered nothing but hurdle jumps, ones I’d never learnt to find a coordinated way to get over without bumping my knees on them and bruising myself.
J.P. Sayle (A Little Christmas: Terrence)
The International Olympic Committee was worried people would walk into a one-hundred-seat theater on the corner of Clark and Addison and wonder why no one was jumping over hurdles.
Amy Poehler (Yes Please)
Forgiveness does carry with it numerous obstacles and one may well be surprised why many people find it a very difficult hurdle to jump over.
Stephen Richards (The Pain You Feel Today Is The Strength You Feel Tomorrow)
Dewey believed that education has a practical function and should not be seen as a series of pointless hurdles to jump over before 'real life' begins. Education isn't a preamble to life; it's part of life, and it exists to solve practical human problems and meet human needs.
Gregory Bassham (The Ultimate Harry Potter and Philosophy: Hogwarts for Muggles)
Have you ever had a moment where you knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you were in the right place? That you were on the right journey? Maybe the sense that you’d crossed a boundary, jumped a hurdle, and somehow, after facing some unconquerable mountain, found yourself suddenly on the other side of it? When the night was warm and the wind was cool, and a song carried through the quiet streets around you. When you felt the entire world around you, and you were part of it—of the hum of it—and everything was good. Contentment, I suppose, is the simple explanation for it. But it seems more than that, thicker than that, some unity of purpose, some sense of being truly, honestly, for that moment, at home. Those moments never seem to last long enough. The song ends, the breeze stills, the worries and fears creep in again and you’re left trying to move forward, but glancing back at the mountain behind you, wondering how you managed to cross it, afraid you really didn’t—that the bulk and shadow over your shoulder might evaporate and re-form before you, and you’d be faced with the burden of crossing it again. The song ends, and you stare at the quiet, dark house in front of you, and you grasp the doorknob, and walk back into your life.
Chloe Neill
In my perspective, life is a race full of hurdles. Those hurdles try to keep you from accomplishing your goals. Instead of complaining about those hurdles, save your breath and jump over each one until the end of the race.
Shirleyka Hector
The International Olympic Committee was worried people would walk into a one-hundred-seat theater on the corner of Clark and Addison and wonder why no one was jumping over hurdles. The
Amy Poehler (Yes Please)
I’ve had many occasions since that time to appreciate this timely advice. For me, the hardest part of learning always boils down to figuring out why I should care. Other people’s expectations matter to me, but they rarely clinch the deal. I need to build up my own reasons to engage. But once I jump over that hurdle, I’m good to go. I
Todd Rose (Square Peg: My Story and What It Means for Raising Innovators, Visionaries, and Out-Of-The-Box Thinkers)
I wanted to tell her that I was getting better, because that was supposed to be the narrative of mental illness: It was a hurdle you jumped over, or a battle you won. Illness is a story told in the past tense.
John Green
The joy of giants is when they jump over situational limitations in the three basic hurdles of life in the area of lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, by using the right formula at the right time for the right purpose. By applying that formula Joseph jumped over the lust of the flesh in the area of unnecessary sex in Egypt, and he passed, king David of Israel jumped over the lust of the eyes in the area of sex with Bathsheba he failed, the brothers, James and John, sons of Zebedee in Palestine jumped over the pride of life in the area of leadership, they failed.
JOEL NYARANGI AKOYA
Luckily for me, I was a motherfucking track star in school, so I know how to jump over hurdles with grace, power, and cuteness.
Bretman Rock (You're That Bitch: & Other Cute Lessons About Being Unapologetically Yourself)
There is no hurdle too high for you to jump over.
Michael H. Forde (Success Begins From Where You Are!)
Dear Lotus Flower, Just like you, my roots were always latched in the mud. I envied you because you were in the dark, murky water only at night—when the daylight arose, you bloomed. Unlike you, I was submerged in nasty water every day and night, but the light abandoned me. Came the morning light, and somehow miraculously, you rebloomed, sparkling, and so clean. I sort of bloomed at night with the moonlight and stars. However, the next morning I wasn’t so lucky because the morning light was nowhere to be found. Things got better for me slowly but surely. I must say, no matter how many times our roots were in the dirtiest water, we survived. We survived because our roots provided the nutrients that allowed us to bloom. I read that a lotus flower at times only partially opens, and the center is hidden. Just like you, there were times when I slowly opened up to people. I hid my inner core because mentally, I didn’t know who to trust. However, I arose from the midst of suffering. Again, just like you, I withstood highly adverse conditions and had to repair myself mentally and physically. Nobody knows, but you are my favorite flowers. We are unique, and we have so much in common. Your shadowy, murky origin found enlightenment as you were on the hunt for light. I, too, was on the quest for light for many years. For 16 years, I was thirsty for light, and now my thirst is quenched. All of those years, I yearned and wanted to break free and bloom. However, I had to keep moving, growing, and believing. My soul is no different from a Lotus flower. I didn’t start my journey in fresh water because my environment was not pleasant. Just like a Lotus flower, my life was surrounded by insects, debris, and so many unpleasant things and people. However, just like the Lotus petals are never contaminated by the murky water, my core remained pure. Just like the Lotus flower, I came from a place of suffering. However, I remained true to myself. I have overcome many obstacles in my life. I am proud of myself—because this time, I jumped a little higher over the hurdles. I have finished the never-ending race. I have officially crossed the finish line and have a fresh start! I am renewed, and I am loved! Triumph should be my middle name because I never gave up.
Charlena E. Jackson (Pinwheels and Dandelions)
Trying to get away, I’m Running a 4 flat ...still death is chasing me and breathing down my back.. sprinting for my life around this track just trying to get away.... jumping over hurdle after hurtle you get to another day
Niedria Kenny
When the time comes for some quick-drawing gunman to jump me over the hurdles I'll ride to the Pearly Gates on my own ticket. It won't be a pass written on the back of another man's thoughts.
Carroll John Daly (The Snarl of the Beast)
###Discover Motivation Books in Bangalore and Boost Your Mindset Amidst the Fuss and Busts of Urban Life, It Can Sometimes Be Motivated Like a Difficult Struggle. for Many of Us in Bangalore, Searching for Inspiration Can Often Lead to Good Book Pages. If You Want to Improve Your Mindset, Achieve Your Goals, and Find Motivation to Work Hard, There's No Better Way to Jump into the World of Motivational Literature. Explore the Top Motivation Books Available in Bangalore. #### 1. ** "The Power of Current" by Eckhart Tolle** the Transformative Classic and Wonderful "Power of the Present" Invites Readers to Embrace Mindfulness and Live in the Present. This Book Guides Readers by Understanding How to Escape Repetitive Patterns of Thought. Many Bookstores, Such as the [Local Book Name] in Bangalore Often Have This Gem, So It's Easy for Anyone Who Wants to Improve Their Intellectual Resistance. Honest and Funny Prose Will Become a "You're Bad" Favorite Among Those Looking for Self-Improvement. the Book Encourages Readers to Free Themselves and Use Their Size Through Self-Imposed Restrictions. with Practical Advice and Motivational Anecdotes, the Book Has Become a Point of Contact for Many Young Professionals in Bangalore to Control Their Career Paths. #### 3. **Atomic Habits by James Clear** Understanding the Power of Small Change Is Central to Clear's "Atomic Habits." This Book Is Perfect for Bangalore Readers Who Are Trying to Develop Better Habits and Ultimately Change Their Lives. the Author's Structured Approach to Habits and Practical Strategies Helps Everyone to Promote Success, Both Personal and Professional. We Urgently Recommend a Copy of [Name of the Local Book Trade], a Popular Place That Local Readers Often Visit. #### 4. **"Seven Habits of Very Effective People" Stephen R. Covey** Covey's Work Is a Timeless Resource and Has Influenced Countless People Around the World. "Seven Habits of Very Effective People" Offers a Major Approach That Challenges Readers to Think About Effectiveness in a Holistic Way. This Book Is Available at Motivation Books in Bangalore, Including [Insert Local Bookstore Name] and Is a Must for Future Managers and Anyone Who Wants to Improve Their Productivity. #### 5. **Memory: a New Psychology of Success in "Mindset," Psychologist Carol Dweck Presents the Concept of Thinking Related to Fixed Growth and How Everyone Can Influence Our Challenges. the Book Encourages Readers to Take Over the Growth Deduction. This Is Particularly Advantageous in the Competitive Environment of Bangalore. See "Insert the Name of a Local Book" [Insert the Name of a Local Book], Known for Its Extensive Collection of Psychology and Self-Help Books. ###Where Can I Buy It in Bangalore? If You're Looking for These Exciting Readings, Bangalore Has an Active Literary Scene with Many Bookstores Such as [Insert Local Name] Where You Can Find a Wide Range of Motivational Literature. Many of These Shops Host Book Clubs and Reading Sessions, Provide a Community of People Who Absolutely Want to Share Insights and Motivate Each Other. ###Dival Whether You Overcome Your Personal Hurdles, Develop Better Habits, or Ignite Your Passion, Motivation Books in Bangalore Provide Instructions and Perspective. If You Are Exploring the Available Choices in Bangalore, Read on to These Transformative Measures That Will Help You Stimulate Your Mindset and Achieve Your Goals. Please Read and Enjoy!
Motivation Books in Bangalore
Buy Verified eBay Accounts – Pvatopservice- 100% Verified & Fast Delivery In the fast-paced world of online commerce, having a strong foothold on platforms like eBay can make all the difference for your business. As millions flock to this marketplace daily, standing out is crucial. Enter verified eBay accounts—a game-changing asset that opens doors to credibility and trust among buyers. 5 Benefits of Using an eBay Business Account - Replyco | Helpdesk ...But what exactly are these accounts, and how can they elevate your selling experience? If you’re ready to take your eBay journey to the next level, you’ll want to know why investing in verified accounts could be one of your smartest moves yet. Let’s explore what makes them essential for anyone serious about succeeding in online sales! Buy Verified eBay Accounts Buying verified eBay accounts is an increasingly popular strategy for sellers aiming to boost their online presence. These accounts come pre-established with a solid track record, making them invaluable for those looking to jumpstart their sales. A verified eBay account typically has positive feedback ratings and history, which can instill confidence in potential buyers. This trust factor often translates into higher conversion rates and increased sales. Moreover, purchasing these accounts allows you to bypass the lengthy process of establishing credibility from scratch. Instead, you can focus on what matters most—growing your business and optimizing listings. Investing in a verified account not only saves time but also provides access to advanced selling tools that enhance productivity. With this powerful asset at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the competitive landscape of e-commerce effectively. What are Buy Verified eBay Accounts? Buying verified eBay accounts means acquiring pre-established accounts that have already undergone the stringent verification process set by eBay. These accounts come with a history of positive transactions and feedback, which significantly enhances credibility. When you choose to buy such an account, you’re not just getting any ordinary profile. You’re investing in a platform that’s ready for business from day one. Verified accounts typically possess strong seller ratings and established trust among buyers. This allows users to jump straight into selling without facing the common hurdles new sellers encounter. With these advantages, sellers can streamline their operations and focus on growing their business efficiently. Using an eBay Accounts Using an eBay account opens up a world of opportunities. Buyers can discover countless products, from rare collectibles to everyday essentials. The platform’s user-friendly interface makes browsing enjoyable and efficient. For sellers, having a verified eBay account is essential for credibility. It builds trust with potential buyers, making them more likely to complete purchases. A well-optimized listing attracts attention and drives sales. Engaging with customers through messaging fosters relationships that encourage repeat business. Feedback systems allow users to build their reputation over time. Moreover, integrating promotional strategies can enhance visibility in search results. Utilizing features like auctions or fixed-price listings offers flexibility in selling approaches. eBay accounts also provide valuable analytics tools to track performance metrics. This data helps refine marketing tactics and product offerings continuously. Benefits Of Verified eBay Accounts Customize your eBay store to stand out from the competition ... Verified eBay accounts come with a host of advantages that can significantly impact your selling experience. One major benefit is increased trust among buyers. A verified account shows potential customers that you are legitimate, which can lead to higher sales.
Digital Marketer (DIGITAL MARKETER: Lined notebook 120 Page matte)
Dear reader, I wrote this book for a boy I knew who died too young. I wrote this book for "our three winners" whose lives were ended by bigotry. I wrote this book for an inventive kid whose world was turned upside down because he built a clock. In America, we tend to ignore an uncomfortable history- our history. We want our wrongs to stay in the past to bury the truth and see history through rose-colored glasses, but the thing about buried truths? They come back to haunt you. For years, the ghosts of all those this nation has wronged have been rising up clamoring for their stories to be recognized. It's up to us to give voice to those whose voices have been forcibly oppressed or forgotten. We might not be able to give them Justice- because what is Justice to the victims of racism bigotry misogyny- but we can speak truth to power and insist on accountability. When I started writing Hollow Fires in 2019, it was against the backdrop of years of toxic damaging lies from our elected official, from the highest offices of this country. It was in the midst of a societal upheaval of people taking to the streets demanding change, so we could strive for that more perfect union politicians constantly laud. I wrote this book to ask uncomfortable questions and confront hard truths because inside us there's a small voice that says we can do better. We must. These voices need to be a chorus. A song we belt out together. And now as Hollow Fires goes to print, I'm watching heartbreaking images on the news of Afghans trying to flee their country fearful that the Taliban will retaliate against them, journalists, human rights workers and interpreters just like Jawad's father. Unfortunately, the United States has a terrible history of occupying other nations, asking those country's citizens for help, and then all too often ignoring the pleas of local allies and leaving them behind to potentially face imprisonment or torture for aiding the United States. We've witnessed Afghans desperately handing their babies to American soldiers over airport barricades, we've seen images of people trying to jump onto departing US. Military planes, reviving painful memories of Saigon in 1975, yet we hear a cacophony of hate from comfortably situated xenophobic American pundits decrying the potential influx of Afghan refugees. Mind you, these refugees have been forcibly displaced in part because of the actions of the United States and the few who are lucky enough to make it to the United States and get visas, permanent residency and citizenship (make no mistake these are huge hurdles) are sometimes cruelly subjected to bigotry and hate in the communities they land in as Americans. Shouldn't we ask more of ourselves? Isn't that what it means to call on the better angels of our nature? The commentators who scream against allowing in refugees, the same talking heads who think the horrifyingly inhumane treatment of migrants at our border with Mexico is justified buy into a deeply ingrained American myth- that they are always only "winners" and "losers". That war is a zero sum game. That extending a helping hand to a displaced individual somehow means that somewhere some American is getting less, but that binary is a lie. Here's the truth. Giving aid and comfort to a displaced person doesn't mean we can't also help Americans in need. We can and must do both. We have choices to make. Important ones. About our future, about who we are as a nation, as a people and as human beings. One of these choices is to live in a world where we call alternative facts what they really truly are- lies that obfuscate, deceits that give cover to Injustice, tools of cynical politicians. I'm asking us to speak tough truths out loud. To know we can do better and be better. I'm asking us to step forward, to face the truth of all we are, lanterns held high, eliminating the dark. Warmly, Samira Ahmed
Samira Ahmed