Helen KellerHelen Keller, (1880-1968) Blind-Deaf Author

Famous Helen Keller Quote

“Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.”

Helen KellerHelen Keller
~ Helen Keller

The Open Door, 1957

Ratings and Comments


Waffler, Smith, Arkansas

She is right that S^%$ happens but if you take her literally then I guess we should just throw away are guns and quit trying to be more secure.

E Archer, NYC

I agree.

me again.
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  • Reply
    me again.    8/26/08

    I like this quote. It reeks of The Power and Resilience of the Human Spirit but I am unsure of the timeless truth of it.

    Ken, Milford Pa.

    The greatest cause of death, is life. The most important goal is life to its fullest. Lifelessness is a sin. Balance caution with courage, and live every second, like it is your last.

    J Carlton, Calgary

    When government is the source of "security", such as surveillance and financial tracking you can bet there's an ulterior motive. Keep your guns clean.

    Mike, Norwalk

    I love this quote, so much said here. Most supposed governmentally supplied security is nothing more than despotism.

    RKA, Wasilla, AK

    Survival of the fittest. Indeed. But I don't know how would I rate it!!

    RobertSRQ
    • Reply
    RobertSRQ    8/26/08

    Fabulous!

    Waffler, Smith, Arkansas

    When squirrels horde up nuts for the winer or when bears bulk up to get fat to last them through hibernation are they not taking security measures.

    warren, olathe

    Agree all but next to last line. Depends on the situation.

    Logan, Memphis, TN

    Beautiful!

    Schulze_98, Kenosha

    I agree with living life to its fullest, and that security is mostly percived, however being a professional in the security field I must say there are degrees of security vs non-security. Living life without a plan nor taking the necessary precautions would most times end in a premature end.

    J Carlton, Calgary

    Yes Waffler they are. And I don't imagine the squirrels would appreciate having their nuts redistributed by the government any more than the the bears needing to work through the winter to pay their taxes. As usual, you've twisted the point completely. (but then, you're a twisted guy) :)

    dick, Fort Worth

    Knowing the causes for which Helen Keller dedicated her llife and the swinish treatment she received gives added meaning to her statement. Her courage and brilliance in fighting for the blind and the powerless, for rights of women, for suffrage, for better workiing conditions and pay for women prove the conclusions of the last two sentences.

    Koen, Amsterdam, Netherlands

    Let us cherish the memory of this great American woman and cherish also the memory of the great American woman Anne Sullivan that was her "governess". And let us be perpetually on guard against those to whom life is nothing.

    Ronw13, Yachats OR

    Fight or flight. Security is what you make it. as needed. Experience is our guide to ( self-defense. ) Nonintervention was the lesson taught, curiosity ? doth not nature teach you ? Beautiful words no doubt. Life is an adventure !

    sherm, San Diego

    Actually you are safer in nature. Humans are the most dangerous animal.

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