Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own.
Michelle Obama
داستان زندگیات چیزی است که داری و همیشه خواهی داشت. این چیزی است که باید مالک آن باشی.
میشل اوباما
Ҳикояи зиндагии ту он чизест, ки дорӣ ва ҳамеша хоҳӣ дошт. Ин чизест, ки бояд онро соҳиб бошӣ.
Мишел Обама
قصتك هي ما لديك، وما ستملكه دائمًا. إنها شيء يجب أن تمتلكه.
ميشيل أوباما
Michelle Obama’s quote, “Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own,” speaks to the deep importance of personal narrative and the sense of agency we have over our own lives.
- Personal Ownership of Narrative: The key idea in this quote is the concept of “owning” your story. It suggests that, regardless of external circumstances, your personal experiences, memories, and the meaning you draw from them are entirely yours. In a world where we may feel pressured by societal expectations or external judgments, the message is empowering—no one can take away your story or dictate how you interpret it.
- The Uniqueness of Your Story: The phrase “what you will always have” implies that, unlike material possessions or even some relationships, your story is something that is deeply personal and indelible. No matter what changes in your life, your story—your experiences, your struggles, and triumphs—will remain a part of you. In a sense, it is timeless and constant, a foundational part of your identity.
- Empowerment through Reflection: By stating that your story is something to “own,” Obama is urging us to embrace who we are, including our past. Often, people can feel ashamed or uncertain about their histories, especially when they’ve faced hardship or adversity. Owning your story means accepting and embracing every part of it—not just the easy or beautiful moments, but also the messy, difficult parts. This acceptance leads to empowerment.
- The Value of Narrative: Stories are a tool for both self-expression and connection. When we “own” our stories, we affirm the value of our individual lives, which in turn fosters greater self-respect. Moreover, sharing our stories can help others feel seen, heard, and understood. In this sense, stories are not only for the individual but also serve as a means of building community.
In sum, Michelle Obama’s quote encourages individuals to take pride in their unique experiences, accept them as integral parts of who they are, and claim their own narrative with confidence.
