Whatever anyone does or says, I must be emerald and keep my colour.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "Whatever anyone does or says, I must be emerald and keep my color" encapsulates a profound philosophy of steadfastness and self-integrity amidst external influences and pressures. At its core, it urges a commitment to inner authenticity and resilience regardless of external circumstances. Imagine the emerald, a gem prized for its vivid green hue and durability. In the same vein, the quote suggests that one should maintain their essence, akin to the emerald's unchanging color, despite the unpredictable and often challenging nature of human interactions and events.
In essence, the quote challenges individuals to uphold their values and integrity steadfastly. It speaks to the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity or differing opinions. By likening oneself to an emerald, it implies a rare and precious quality that should not be tarnished or altered by external pressures. This metaphorical resilience encourages a deep-rooted sense of identity and purpose, unaffected by the changing tides of societal expectations or personal criticism.
Moreover, the quote implies a sense of moral and emotional fortitude. To "keep my color" signifies a commitment to maintaining emotional stability and ethical clarity, even when confronted with challenges or negativity from others. It advocates for a consistent inner strength and authenticity that serves as a moral compass amidst life's uncertainties and complexities.
Furthermore, the quote suggests a proactive approach to self-awareness and personal growth. By emphasizing the preservation of one's "color," it prompts reflection on one's values and beliefs. This introspective process fosters a deeper understanding of oneself and strengthens the resolve to uphold those principles in all circumstances.
In conclusion, the quote "Whatever anyone does or says, I must be emerald and keep my color" encapsulates a timeless message of integrity, resilience, and self-acceptance. It encourages individuals to embrace their unique identity and values unwaveringly, remaining steadfast in their principles despite external influences. It speaks to the enduring power of authenticity and inner strength, urging us to navigate life's challenges with grace and unwavering moral clarity.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Whatever anyone does or says, I must be emerald and keep my colour." is often attributed to Marcus Aurelius (Bio / Quotes). Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 161 until his death in AD 180.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
The quote “Whatever anyone does or says, I must be emerald and keep my colour” suggests a commitment to maintaining one’s own integrity and consistency regardless of external pressures. An apt historical example is the life of Nelson Mandela during his imprisonment on Robben Island.
Mandela, imprisoned from 1964 to 1982, was subjected to harsh conditions and isolation. The apartheid government hoped to break his spirit and force him to renounce his commitment to ending racial segregation. Despite these challenges, Mandela remained steadfast in his principles and vision for a democratic South Africa. He continued to support and inspire his fellow prisoners, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the cause of equality and justice.
Even when faced with personal hardships and the temptation to compromise, Mandela’s “emerald” resolve to stay true to his beliefs and goals was evident. His ability to maintain his moral and ethical stance, despite the attempts to undermine his spirit, highlighted his dedication to his principles. This unwavering stance ultimately contributed to his success in achieving his goal of a democratic South Africa and establishing himself as a global symbol of resilience and integrity.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Applying the quote “Whatever anyone does or says, I must be emerald and keep my colour” in real life involves maintaining your core values and principles despite external pressures or criticism.
Imagine a workplace scenario where a person is faced with the opportunity to advance their career by compromising their ethical standards. Suppose an employee discovers that a superior is engaging in unethical practices, such as misreporting financial figures. The employee might be tempted to overlook this misconduct in exchange for a promotion or favorable treatment.
However, applying the quote means choosing to stay true to one’s own principles and ethical standards, even if it’s difficult or may lead to personal disadvantage. By reporting the unethical behavior and adhering to their moral values, the employee demonstrates integrity and commitment to honesty, regardless of potential repercussions.
In this scenario, maintaining one’s “emerald” quality means consistently upholding personal standards of honesty and integrity. This not only fosters a sense of personal fulfillment and self-respect but also contributes to a culture of accountability and ethical behavior in the workplace. Such adherence to principles can ultimately lead to long-term respect and trust from colleagues and supervisors, reinforcing the value of staying true to one’s core values amidst challenges.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
