Today’s Quote
“When you ask people, ‘What is it you’ve always wanted to do?’ most people haven’t done it. That breaks my heart.”
— Angelina Jolie (Actor/Humanitarian)
Who is Angelina Jolie?
Born on June 4, 1975, she is an American actor, filmmaker, and humanitarian.
She is a top Hollywood star known for hit films such as Girl, Interrupted (for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress), Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and Maleficent.
Beyond her acting success, she has dedicated herself to humanitarian aid for many years, serving as a Special Envoy for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Her commitment to using her fame and influence for the sake of others has earned her deep respect from women around the world.
My Thoughts
Good morning.
Today, June 4th, is the birthday of the world-renowned actor and humanitarian, Angelina Jolie.
Many admire her as she lives a life of strength and grace on the silver screen. However, she poses a question that goes beyond the story of a glamorous career. She once said:
“When you ask people, ‘What is it you’ve always wanted to do?’ most people haven’t done it. That breaks my heart.”
I feel as though this quote is a “reverse birthday gift” from her to each of us. On this special day, as we reflect on her age, perhaps we also need to re-examine the “current location” of our own lives.
Why do we put off what we want to do?
The “heartbreak” is proof your soul isn’t dead yet.
The feeling of “heartbreak” that Angelina Jolie describes comes from her own sensitivity—born from constantly questioning how she wants to live and forging ahead through the stormy seas of life, even while being uncertain.
Just as she has grown another year older today, we are all equally consuming precious time. The fact that you can feel that pain is proof that your soul is not yet dead. It is a sign that you are ready to change your life.
Are you mistaking “what you want to do” for a grand dream?
Reclaim ownership of your life today.
I don’t know how Angelina Jolie is spending today, but I am sure she is walking her chosen path in her own way.
If today were the last day of your life, could you celebrate this day for yourself, just as you might celebrate someone else’s birthday?
Do not let the feeling of “heartbreak” turn into regret. It is a warning from your instincts—a sign to change the way you are living now—and an “invitation” to use today as a turning point.
I’ll do it tomorrow. I’ll do it next week. I’ll do it next year.
Why don’t we make today, her birthday, the last time we use those words?
Whatever you have always wanted to do—add it to the first line of your to-do list today.
Your life truly begins the moment you discard the reasons for “not doing it.”
On Angelina Jolie’s birthday, why not use the first five minutes of today for something you’ve always wanted to do?
