“I am not afraid… I was born to do this.”
- c. 1412 – May 30, 1431
- French
- Military leader, Martyr, Saint of the Roman Catholic Church
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Quote
“I am not afraid… I was born to do this.”
Explanation
This quote captures the essence of Joan of Arc’s fearless sense of purpose, declaring with certainty that her mission was not only justified but divinely ordained. The phrase “I am not afraid” signals a remarkable calm in the face of danger, while “I was born to do this” expresses a profound belief in destiny. It reveals how Joan viewed her actions—not as choices, but as a fulfillment of her divine calling, which gave her strength beyond what her age, gender, or station might suggest.
While the exact phrasing may not be directly attested in the trial records, this quote reflects the spirit of Joan’s historical testimony and behavior. During the Hundred Years’ War, she led French troops into battle as a teenage girl, inspired by voices she believed were from saints. Despite facing ridicule, imprisonment, and eventual execution, she remained unwavering. Her life demonstrated a consistent alignment between inner conviction and outward action, fueled by a sense of sacred duty.
Today, this quote resonates as a statement of empowerment and clarity of purpose. It inspires those who face fear or doubt to stand firm in their convictions and pursue what they believe they are meant to do. Whether in the pursuit of justice, art, science, or personal transformation, Joan’s words remind us that courage often stems from knowing that one’s path—no matter how difficult—is the right one.
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