This is what I learned: that everybody is talented, original and
This is what I learned: that everybody is talented, original and has something important to say.
"This is what I learned: that everybody is talented, original, and has something important to say." Thus declared Brenda Ueland, a guardian of the creative flame, whose words shine like a torch against the shadows of doubt. Her wisdom is this: that the spark of divinity dwells in every soul, waiting to be kindled into light. No one is barren of worth, no one bereft of voice. Each carries within themselves a truth the world has not yet heard.
The ancients proclaimed the same. Socrates wandered Athens teaching that wisdom was not the possession of a few, but the birthright of all who dared to question and speak. The Stoics held that reason and virtue are sown in every heart, as seeds waiting to grow. To call only a few talented or original is to despise the great design, which grants every soul its own song. The wise do not silence others, but listen, for in the humble voice may lie the greatest truth.
History bears witness in the life of Frederick Douglass. Born enslaved, denied schooling, told he had nothing of value, he refused this lie. By teaching himself letters, by speaking the words of his own heart, he revealed his voice to be thunder. The world discovered what Ueland proclaims: that every human being has something important to say, if only given the chance to utter it. His voice, once thought powerless, helped reshape a nation.
So too in the story of Anne Frank. Hidden away, a child in terror, she wrote her thoughts in a diary never meant for the world. Yet those words, fragile as whispers, proved original and eternal, touching the hearts of millions long after her voice was silenced. She was not a queen, nor a philosopher, but she was human—and therefore, as Ueland teaches, she had something important to say.
Therefore, let this wisdom endure: despise no voice, and do not believe the lie that only a chosen few may create or speak with worth. The poet, the child, the laborer, the outcast—all are talented, all are original, all are bearers of truths that the world needs. Listen well, and speak with courage, for your words may be the very gift that another soul has been waiting to hear.
HNHong hanh Nguyen
Ueland’s statement about everyone being talented and original feels hopeful, but sometimes I wonder if people believe it. There are so many pressures to conform or fit in, especially with social media platforms. Do you think people can genuinely recognize their own worth when the world often measures success by external standards? How do we encourage people to embrace their individuality without feeling like they have to compare themselves to others?
CTBui Thi Cam Tu.
It’s refreshing to hear Ueland’s perspective that everyone has something valuable to contribute. But in practice, it’s hard to feel that way when we live in a world that often rewards a narrow definition of talent. Do you think that cultural or societal barriers prevent many people from recognizing their own originality? How can we shift the narrative to allow more diverse voices and talents to emerge?
HNPhi hung Nguyen
This quote makes me reflect on how society often underestimates people who don’t fit conventional molds of success or creativity. Could it be that we overlook so much potential simply because we don’t give certain voices enough space to speak? If everyone has something important to say, how do we create environments that truly allow these voices to be heard and valued?
LDLinh Dieu
Brenda Ueland’s perspective is so empowering! It’s easy to get caught up in comparisons and think that only a few people are truly special or original. But if everyone has something important to say, what happens when people don’t know how to share their voices? Is there a way to help people tap into their talent without forcing them into boxes or specific expectations?
AMAFK MoBa
I love this quote because it reminds me that everyone has something unique to offer. But sometimes, it’s hard to believe this when you feel overshadowed by others’ talents. Do you think it’s possible for everyone to really express their true potential, or are some people simply not given the right opportunities or encouragement? How do we support those who are struggling to recognize their own talents?