“You shall, I question not, find a way to the top if you diligently seek for it; for nature hath placed nothing so high that it is out of the reach of industry and valor.”
- July 20, 356 BC – June 10, 323 BC
- Born in Macedonia
- King of Macedonia
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Quote
“You shall, I question not, find a way to the top if you diligently seek for it; for nature hath placed nothing so high that it is out of the reach of industry and valor.”
Explanation
This quote, often attributed to Alexander the Great, captures the spirit of ambition driven by perseverance and courage. Whether or not the precise wording is historically authentic, it encapsulates the ethos that characterized Alexander’s life. The message is clear: no goal is too lofty, no height unreachable, for those who combine diligent effort (“industry”) and bravery (“valor”). It reflects a belief that greatness is earned, not inherited, and that the natural world imposes no barrier that human determination cannot overcome.
Historically, this aligns with Alexander’s life and campaigns—from taming the horse Bucephalus as a youth, to crossing the Hindu Kush, to defeating the mighty Persian Empire. His conquests were not just a product of privilege or luck; they were driven by a relentless will to act boldly and transcend perceived limits. This quote would have served as both personal philosophy and inspirational doctrine to his soldiers and successors.
In a modern context, this sentiment is echoed in the pursuit of personal, professional, or societal advancement. Whether climbing the ranks in a career, overcoming social barriers, or striving for innovation, the quote champions the idea that hard work and courage can overcome even the most formidable obstacles. It remains a universal message of empowerment, affirming that human effort, rightly applied, has no ceiling.
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