Mary McLeod Bethune

Cease to be a drudge, seek to be an artist.

I never stop to plan. I take things step by step.

The whole world opened to me when I learned to read.

Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough.

The true worth of a race must be measured by the character of its womanhood.

Knowledge is the prime need of the hour.

Whatever glory belongs to the race for a development unprecedented in history for the given length of time, a full share belongs to the womanhood of the race.

Faith is the first factor in a life devoted to service. Without it, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible.

Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible.

The drums of Africa still beat in my heart. They will not let me rest while there is a single Negro boy or girl without a chance to prove his worth.

We have a powerful potential in out youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends.