# I prefer to be true to myself, even at the hazard ... | Frederick Douglass Quote

> Source: https://positivity.org/quotes/quote-frederick-douglass-i-prefer-to-be-true-2

> I prefer to be true to myself, even at the hazard of incurring the ridicule of others, rather than to be false, and to incur my own abhorrence.

## What This Quote Means

Speaking and living truthfully is the foundation of authentic existence.

## About Frederick Douglass

Frederick Douglass was an American social reformer, abolitionist, and statesman who escaped slavery to become the most famous Black American of the 19th century.

Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) escaped slavery to become the leading voice of the abolitionist movement and one of the greatest orators in American history.

## How to Apply This Wisdom

### Honest inventory

Be truthful with yourself about one area where you have been in denial.

### Speak truth

Share an honest thought that you have been holding back.

### Seek truth

Question one assumption you have been taking for granted.

## Reflection Questions

- Where am I being less than honest with myself?

- What truth am I avoiding that could set me free?

- How does living truthfully affect my relationships?

## More Quotes by Frederick Douglass

> If there is no struggle, there is no progress.

> Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.

> It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.

> Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.

> A man''s character always takes its hue, more or less, from the form and color of things about him.