“Remember you are just an extra in everyone else’s play.”
- January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945
- American
- Politician
- [Achievements]
- As president of the United States, he promoted economic recovery from the Great Depression with the New Deal policy
- He led the Allied powers to victory in World War II
- [Criticism]
- His hard-line policy toward Japan triggered the attack on Pearl Harbor
- He pushed for the forced internment policy of Japanese Americans due to racist feelings toward the Japanese
- He promoted the Manhattan Project, a plan to develop the atomic bomb
Quote
“Remember you are just an extra in everyone else’s play.”
Explanation
This quote reflects a humbling perspective on life and one’s role in the broader context of the world. It suggests that, while each individual plays a part in their own story, they are not the central character in the lives of others. Roosevelt may have used this metaphor to encourage people to keep a sense of modesty and perspective, reminding them that their actions and choices are often shaped by larger forces beyond their control. It also speaks to the idea that, despite our best efforts, we are all part of a bigger picture, and our lives intersect with many other people’s experiences, which often take precedence over our own personal narratives.
This viewpoint can be interpreted as a call for humility and awareness of the interconnectedness of humanity. Roosevelt, who led the country during turbulent times, may have wanted to remind the public that while individuals have agency, they are also subject to the actions, decisions, and struggles of others. In essence, it’s a reminder not to get too caught up in self-importance or ego, as life is a complex web of relationships where every person plays a small but significant role.
In modern times, this quote resonates with ideas of collective responsibility and the recognition that, while personal success is important, we are all part of a larger social and global context. The humility it advocates can serve as a counterbalance to the individualistic mindset that sometimes dominates contemporary culture, where people may feel entitled to prioritize their own narrative over others. By acknowledging that we are “extras” in the lives of others, we foster a sense of shared humanity, recognizing that the world does not revolve around any one individual.
