There are two ways of exerting one's strength: one is pushing down, the other is pulling up.
Meaning
Washington lived this idea, building a school to lift others instead of competing to stand above them. Strength can be used to dominate or to raise people. In a team, measure yourself by who you helped advance, and praise colleagues by name when they do good work.
Source: As quoted in The Great Quotations (1971), edited by George Seldes
About the author
(1856–1915) was an American educator, author, and influential leader in the African American community. Born into slavery, he rose to become the founder of the Tuskegee Institute, focusing on vocational education and self-reliance. Washington believed in practical skills and economic progress as pathways to racial advancement. His autobiography, "Up from Slavery," remains a powerful account of resilience and determination. While his views on gradual progress were debated, his contributions to education and leadership were significant. Booker T. Washington’s legacy continues to inspire discussions on education, equality, and empowerment.
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