Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Quote

Teach her never to universalize her own standards or experiences. Teach her that her standards are for her alone, and not for other people. This is the only necessary form of humility: the realization that difference is normal. Please note that I am not suggesting that you raise her to be non-judgemental, which is a commonly used expression these days, and which slightly worries me. The general sentiment behind the idea is a fine one, but non-judgmental can easily devolve into meaning don't have an opinion about anything or I keep my opinions to myself. And so, instead of that, what I hope for Chizalum is this: that she will be full of opinions, and that her opinions will come from an informed, humane, and broad-minded place. (page 62)

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Teach her never to universalize her own standards or experiences. Teach her that her standards are for her alone, and not for other people. This is the only necessary form of humility: the realization that difference is normal. Please note that I am not suggesting that you raise her to be non-judgemental, which is a commonly used expression these days, and which slightly worries me. The general sentiment behind the idea is a fine one, but non-judgmental can easily devolve into meaning don't have an opinion about anything or I keep my opinions to myself. And so, instead of that, what I hope for Chizalum is this: that she will be full of opinions, and that her opinions will come from an informed, humane, and broad-minded place. (page 62)

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