Blacks have had to learn to protect
â
Blacks have had to learn to protect themselves
by being cynical but not cynical enough to slam
the door on potential opportunities.
We go through life walking a tightrope
to prevent too much disillusionment.
â
Meaning
This quote means black Americans often had to protect themselves with skepticism while still remaining open to real opportunities. Survival required emotional balance.
About Author
Jackie Robinson
Jackie Robinson was an American baseball player and civil rights activist, famously breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball. His quotes often reflect courage, determination, and equality. Robinson inspires athletes, activists, and leaders to challenge injustice, persevere against adversity, and make a lasting impact in sports and society.
Related Quotes
â A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives. â
This quote means a life\'s true value is measured by how it affects and helps other people. Importance comes from influence, not mere existence.
â I cannot possibly believe that I have it made while so many black brothers and sisters are hungry, inadequately housed, insufficiently clothed, denied their dignity as they live in slums or barely exist on welfare. â
This quote means personal success means little while others in your community still suffer deprivation and humiliation. True progress must be shared.
â I want everybody to understand that I am an American Negro first before I am a member of any political party. â
This quote means racial identity and the experience tied to it shaped his public life more deeply than party affiliation ever could.