Insist on yourself never imitate. Your own gift you can present every moment with the cumulative force of a whole life's cultivation but of the adopted talent of another you have only an extemporaneous half possession... Do that which is assigned to you, and you cannot hope too much or dare too much.

Summary

This quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of embracing one's unique gifts and talents. By insisting on being true to oneself and never imitating others, one can fully present their own abilities in every moment. Emerson suggests that our own unique gifts, developed over a lifetime, hold greater value than adopting someone else's talents. He encourages individuals to focus on fulfilling their own assigned roles and tasks, suggesting that by doing so, they can achieve great things beyond their wildest dreams. The quote inspires self-belief, self-expression, and daring to push boundaries.