Far Better Is It To Dare Mighty Things

Far Better Is It To Dare Mighty Things Graphic © inspirationpowerboost.com

“Far better is it to dare
mighty things, to win glorious triumphs,
even though checkered by failure…
than to rank with those poor spirits who neither
enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a
gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.”

-Theodore Roosevelt

The Essence of Daring

Theodore Roosevelt’s words resonate with a timeless truth: the value of daring to strive for greatness. This quote encapsulates the essence of human ambition and the courage to face failure. It’s a call to arms against the complacency of the ‘gray twilight,’ where nothing is risked and nothing is gained. Roosevelt, known for his adventurous spirit and robust approach to life, challenges us to embrace the highs and lows of our endeavors. His life, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, serves as a testament to this philosophy.

About Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, was a figure of monumental significance in American history, known for his vibrant personality, varied interests, and progressive political policies. His life and work left an indelible mark on the United States, shaping the nation’s political landscape in the early 20th century.

Early Life and Education: Born on October 27, 1858, in New York City, Roosevelt was a sickly child suffering from asthma. However, he overcame his physical limitations through sheer willpower and a rigorous exercise regime, embodying the vigorous lifestyle he would champion throughout his life. He was homeschooled due to his health issues and developed a love for nature and wildlife, which would later influence his conservation efforts.

Roosevelt attended Harvard University, where he excelled in science, philosophy, and history. After graduating in 1880, he briefly attended Columbia Law School but soon turned to politics.

Political Career: Roosevelt’s political career began in the New York State Assembly, where he served from 1882 to 1884. His time in the Assembly was marked by his fight against corruption and his advocacy for civil service reform.

After the tragic deaths of his mother and first wife in 1884, Roosevelt retreated to the Badlands of Dakota Territory, where he lived as a rancher and sheriff. This period was crucial in shaping his rugged outdoor image and his conservationist views.

Returning to New York, Roosevelt resumed his political career. He served as a Civil Service Commissioner, President of the New York City Board of Police Commissioners, and Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President William McKinley. His advocacy for a strong Navy contributed to the modernization of the fleet, preparing the United States for its emerging role as a global power.

The Rough Rider and Governor of New York: Roosevelt’s national fame soared during the Spanish-American War when he led the Rough Riders in a charge up San Juan Hill in Cuba. His heroics and charisma made him a national hero. Capitalizing on this fame, he was elected Governor of New York in 1898, where he continued his reform agenda.

Vice Presidency and Presidency: In 1900, Roosevelt was elected Vice President under President McKinley. However, McKinley’s assassination in 1901 thrust Roosevelt into the presidency, making him, at age 42, the youngest president in U.S. history.

As President, Roosevelt was a dynamic force of reform. He is best known for his “Square Deal” domestic policies, which aimed at balancing the interests of business, consumers, and labor. He championed antitrust laws, railroad regulation, and food and drug safety.

Conservation and the Environment: One of Roosevelt’s enduring legacies is his conservation work. He was an ardent naturalist and established the United States Forest Service, national parks, and bird reserves. He placed approximately 230 million acres of land under public protection, laying the groundwork for the modern environmental movement.

Foreign Policy: In foreign policy, Roosevelt was known for his assertive approach, famously summarized in his adage, “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” He was instrumental in constructing the Panama Canal, a feat that significantly enhanced U.S. naval mobility and commercial interests. In 1906, he won the Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Russo-Japanese War, becoming the first American to win a Nobel Prize in any category.

Post-Presidency: After leaving office in 1909, Roosevelt remained active in politics. He made an unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 1912 as a candidate of the Progressive Party, also known as the “Bull Moose Party.” His platform called for wide-ranging progressive reforms.

Theodore Roosevelt died on January 6, 1919, at the age of 60. His legacy as a statesman, conservationist, and reformer remains profound. He redefined the presidency, expanded the role of the United States on the world stage, and is remembered as a champion of the progressive movement. His face on Mount Rushmore alongside Washington, Jefferson, and Lincoln symbolizes his enduring impact on American history.

A Daily Affirmation

“I choose action over inaction. I embrace the possibility of failure in the pursuit of success, and choose to live a life colored with the full range of human emotions and experiences.”

Further Inspirational Quotes

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

“It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed.” – Theodore Roosevelt

“Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.” – Robert F. Kennedy

“Do one thing every day that scares you.” – Eleanor Roosevelt