Quote by Louis L'Amour, The Walking Drum
Up to a point a man's life is shaped by environment, heredity, and the movements and changes in the world around him. Then there comes a time when it lies within his grasp to shape the clay of his life into the sort of thing he wishes to be. Only the weak blame parents, their race, their times, lack of good fortune, or the quirks of fate. Everyone has it within his power to say, 'This I am today; that I will be tomorrow.' The wish, however, must be implemented by deeds.
Summary
This quote suggests that a person's life is initially influenced by external factors such as their environment, genetics, and societal changes. However, there comes a point where an individual can take control and shape their own destiny. It emphasizes that blaming parents, race, circumstances, or luck is a sign of weakness. Instead, every person has the ability to decide who they want to become. It stresses that simply desiring change is not enough; one must also take action and make it a reality through their actions.