Rosa Parks: 'I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear knowing what must be done does away with fear.'

I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear knowing what must be done does away with fear.

Rosa Parks, a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, once said, "I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear knowing what must be done does away with fear." This powerful quote encompasses the profound understanding Parks gained through her experiences and embodies the courage that defined her actions. It highlights the notion that when individuals are resolute in their convictions and have a clear understanding of their purpose, fear loses its grip on them.Parks' quote resonates with many aspects of our lives, not just in the context of civil rights activism. At its core, it speaks to the transformative power of determination and clarity. When we make up our minds about something, when we have a strong belief and purpose, fear becomes merely a passing obstacle rather than an insurmountable force. This understanding holds great significance as it empowers individuals to push beyond the boundaries of fear and take action toward meaningful goals.However, delving deeper, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that can bring a different perspective to Parks' quote: existentialism. Existentialism is a philosophy that explores the significance of human existence, emphasizing individual freedom and responsibility. It asserts that each person must create their own meaning in life, embracing the innate freedom they possess. In light of this philosophy, we can compare and contrast Parks' quote with existentialist ideas.Existentialism suggests that the fear Parks speaks of is rooted in the anxiety of confronting our freedom and taking responsibility for our actions. In this context, when one's mind is made up and one knows what must be done, fear diminishes because the individual has embraced their existential freedom. The fear that arises from facing the unknown or making choices is alleviated when one finds purpose and understands their responsibility in shaping their own existence.On the other hand, Parks' quote goes beyond existentialism and delves into the realm of action, implying that fear dissipates not only through understanding but through the determination to act upon that knowledge. Existentialism may address the psychological and philosophical aspects of fear, but Parks reminds us that knowing alone is not enough. Taking action, stepping forward in the face of fear, is the catalyst for its dissolution.In essence, Parks' quote encapsulates both existentialist understanding and the necessity of action. It teaches us that knowledge and understanding go hand in hand with courage and determination. By merging these two perspectives, we can appreciate the transformative power of both philosophy and action. Parks herself lived this truth by refusing to give up her seat on that bus, catalyzing change in the American society and inspiring countless individuals around the world.In our own lives, we can find inspiration in Parks' words. When our minds are made up, when we have a clear purpose and understanding of what must be done, fear loses its hold over us. By embracing existential freedom and taking action, we can overcome the fear that often hinders us from pursuing our goals and living authentically. So, let us draw strength from Rosa Parks' profound insight and allow it to ignite the fire within us, pushing us to embrace our own convictions and transform our lives for the better.