The Power of Quotes
The origin of quotes can be traced back to the earliest forms of human communication and storytelling. Over time, they have evolved to become a way of capturing and sharing wisdom, emotions, and powerful ideas in a short and simple way.
Quotes likely began with the spoken word, and we know that in ancient societies across the globe, stories, proverbs, and sayings were passed down from generation to generation. These short, memorable phrases helped people share knowledge, values, and experiences.
Throughout history, from ancient Greece to right here in Aotearoa, people have used quotes to capture important ideas. In Māori and Pasifika cultures, oral traditions have always been an essential part of preserving history, culture, and identity. Whakataukī (proverbs) are key examples of how the Māori people have used quotes to encapsulate wisdom, advice, and observations about life. These sayings have been passed down from one generation to the next, serving as both guidance and a way to connect with ancestors.
For example, the well-known whakataukī “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata” can be translated as “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people.” This powerful quote reflects the significance of community, relationships, and the value of human connection. It reminds us that at the heart of everything we do, it is the people in our lives who matter most.
Similarly, in Pasifika cultures, proverbs and sayings often carry life lessons, respect for elders, and a sense of communal responsibility. A well-known Samoan proverb below, highlights the value of serving others as a way of contributing to and uplifting the community. Such quotes are passed down and shared, shaping both personal and collective identities.
O le ala i le pule o le tautua (The path to leadership is through service)
As writing systems developed, the recording of quotes became more formalized. With the rise of literature, particularly in ancient Greece and Rome, the words of influential individuals like Plato, Aristotle, and poets such as Homer, began to be written down. Public figures and statesmen, such as Cicero and Julius Caesar, also contributed to the legacy of quotes through their speeches. These powerful statements helped to shape public opinion and record significant moments in history.
One of the reasons quotes have endured through the centuries is their ability to capture complex emotions or ideas in a few words. They often distill deep wisdom or insight into a form that’s easily understood and remembered. In fact, many quotes stay with us precisely because they are so simple yet so relatable.
Psychologists suggest that quotes have such emotional impact because they trigger personal memories or experiences. When we hear a line like “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” (Wayne Gretzky), it might remind us of missed opportunities or inspire us to take action. Quotes can connect with us on a deeply personal level, making them feel meaningful and poignant.
Whether from famous folks, traditional whakataukī or a beloved family member’s words of wisdom, quotes often act as emotional anchors.
They have a unique ability to capture a moment or feeling that resonates with us, long after the words were spoken. Just hearing a quote like “He aroha whakatō, he aroha ka puta mai” (If kindness is sown, then kindness you shall receive) can bring back memories of loved ones and remind us of their values and influence.
When someone shares a saying that we’ve heard from our parents, grandparents, or respected elders, it connects us to those moments and emotions. It’s why many of us hold onto the phrases that were shared with us growing up, or the advice passed down in difficult times.
In the same way, quotes can be healing. They provide comfort when we are grieving or struggling. The simple words of a whakataukī or a well-loved family saying can help us remember that we are never alone, and that the wisdom of those who came before us remains with us.In more recent times, quotes have become an even bigger part of daily life thanks to books, speeches, and social media. Now, anyone can share their own quotes, and it’s easier than ever for a single line to go viral and reach people across the globe. We see quotes from authors like Maya Angelou (“Nothing will work unless you do”) or modern leaders that become sources of inspiration for millions many years after they were first said or penned.
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, quotes help us cut through the noise. They provide us with something to hold onto, a nugget of wisdom that stays with us, offering guidance, motivation, or even comfort when we need it most.
At Holdmine, we understand that quotes, whether they’re famous or come from someone you love, are often more than just words. They remind us of moments shared, of lessons learned, and of the people who shaped our lives. We share snippets and sayings from songs and literature to help give a reminder, a perspective or a little boost of inspiration.
On a personal level though we deeply believe that quotes can connect us to our loved ones, preserving memories long after someone is gone. That’s why capturing these words, storing them, and sharing them can be so powerful. They help us hold onto what really matters.
When it comes to remembering loved ones, quotes become part of their legacy. Much like how Lola Anderson’s father kept her discarded note with her Olympic dreams, many of us have words and phrases that our parents, siblings, partners, children or grandparents have said that we’ll never forget. These little nuggets of wisdom—or even their little daily sayings—live on with us.
Melissa’s Dad, Grant, would always tell her to “Back yourself,” and now that message is forever with her, not just in her heart but tattooed on her wrist. That’s the beauty of a quote—it can be a quiet, constant reminder of the people who believe in you.
So, whether it’s a quote that makes you smile on a tough day or a saying you remember from your grandparents, those words carry weight. They connect us, inspire us, and keep the memories of those we love alive. At Holdmine, we believe that holding onto those words can be one of the most precious things you do.
