“Why was I chosen?''Such questions cannot be answered,' said Gandalf. 'You may be sure that it was not for any merit that others do not possess. But you have been chosen, and you must therefore use such strength and heart and wits as you have.”
Explore This Quote Further
Quote Analysis
In this quote from J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings", Gandalf offers a response to Frodo's question about why he was chosen for a particular task. Gandalf's answer suggests that being chosen for a task or mission may not be based on personal merits, but rather on a higher purpose or destiny. This quote highlights the theme of fate versus free will in the story, emphasizing the importance of using one's strengths and abilities to fulfill the responsibilities placed upon them.
Finding Purpose in Unexpected Circumstances
In J.R.R. Tolkien's quote, Gandalf reassures the character that being chosen for a special task is not due to any specific merit, but rather a unique destiny. This message can be applied to modern life, where individuals may find themselves in unexpected situations or facing challenges that they believe they are not equipped to handle. It serves as a reminder that everyone has their own strengths and abilities, and that they must find the courage to use them to navigate through difficult circumstances.
Gandalf's Wise Words
In this quote from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Gandalf emphasizes the importance of using one's strengths and abilities, even if one may feel undeserving of being chosen for a particular task.
"“Why was I chosen?''Such questions cannot be answered,' said Gandalf. 'You may be sure that it was not for any merit that others do not possess. But you have been chosen, and you must therefore use such strength and heart and wits as you have.” - J.R.R. Tolkien"
Reflection Questions
In this quote from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," Gandalf suggests that questioning why we have been chosen for a particular task may be futile. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of using our strengths, heart, and wits to fulfill our roles. Reflect on the following questions:
- What unique strengths do you possess that may have led to you being chosen for this task?
- How can you cultivate your strengths and develop your character in order to fulfill your role effectively?
- Are there areas where you can improve or gain new skills to better meet the challenges ahead?
- How can you demonstrate courage, determination, and intelligence in carrying out your responsibilities?
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“Then are we not to see the merry young hobbits again?" said Legolas."I did not say so," said Gandalf. "Who knows? Have patience. Go where you must go, and hope!”
“The lesson in caution has been well learned,' said Strider with a grim smile. 'But caution is one thing and wavering is another. You will never get to Rivendell now on your own, and to trust me is your only chance. You must make up your mind. I will answer some of your questions, if that will help you to do so. But why should you believe my story, if you do not trust me already? Still here it is---”
“Well, you can go on looking forward," said Gandalf. "There may be many unexpected feasts ahead of you.”
“Where did you go to, if I may ask?' said Thorin to Gandalf as they rode along.To look ahead,' said he.And what brought you back in the nick of time?'Looking behind,' said he.”
“But I have so little of any of these things! You are wise and powerful. Will you not take the Ring?""No!" cried Gandalf, springing to his feet. "With that power I should have power too great and terrible. And over me the Ring would gain a power still greater and more deadly." His eyes flashed and his face was lit as by a fire within. "Do not tempt me! For I do not wish to become like the Dark Lord himself. Yet the way of the Ring to my heart is by pity, pity for weakness and the desire of strength to do good. Do not tempt me! I dare not take it, not even to keep it safe, unused. The wish to wield it would be too great for my strength. I shall have such need of it. Great perils lie before me.”