My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions

by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

one must keep dreaming at various phases of life, and then work hard to realize those dreams.

Dreams are not those that we see in our sleep; they should be the ones that never let us sleep.'

there really is no difficulty one cannot overcome if there is determination in the heart.

Adversity always presents opportunities for introspection.'

There is a divine power that looks over us, that gently lifts us from our sadness and failures and miseries. If we open our minds and let it, it will guide us to our true place. Release yourself from the bindings that limit you and let that power overtake your mind, and that's when you will be on the road to true happiness and peace.'

Of knowing that there is a larger energy and force that can crush our ambitions and plans in the blink of an eye, and that the only way to survive is to face your troubles and rebuild your life.

it does not matter how large or small your sphere of activity is, what counts finally is the commitment that you bring to the job that has been ordained for you in this life.

Yet, I firmly believe that unless one has tasted the bitter pill of failure, one cannot aspire enough for success.

'Accept your destiny and go ahead with your life. You are not destined to become an air force pilot. What you are destined to become is not revealed now but it is predetermined. Forget this failure, as it was essential to lead you to your destined path. Search, instead, for the true purpose of your existence… Surrender yourself to the wish of God.'

(Think of rising higher. Let it be your only thought. Even if your object be not attained, the thought itself will have raised you.)

'See the flower, how generously it distributes perfume and honey. When its work is done, it falls away quietly. Try to be like the flower, unassuming despite all its qualities.'

Joy is fleeting, whereas true happiness and calm can come to us only after intense pain, when we have confronted ourselves in the mirror of our souls and understood the self.

Life had already taught me that the best way to win is to not covet the win too much, instead to keep a calm and open mind to new challenges.