Inspirational Thoughts from Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa’s life was a testament to selfless love and unwavering dedication to helping others. For over four decades, she cared for the poorest, sickest, and most marginalized people in Calcutta, India, founding the Missionaries of Charity to spread her message of compassion. Her words continue to inspire millions, offering timeless wisdom that can help us navigate our everyday lives with purpose and grace. Here are a few of her most impactful thoughts to help guide you toward a life filled with love, kindness, and meaning.

If you doubt if one person CAN make a difference, keep reading:

“Never travel faster than your guardian angel can fly.”

We spend each week ticking off the days from Monday and counting down until Friday rushing through the better part of our days. Slow down and enjoy the journey.

“If you judge people, you have no time to love them.”

So simple and yet profound, it is much easier to find the faults of others instead of looking inward and contemplating what it is that we are seeing in this person that we are judging. It is a trait that we ourselves have and don’t see? Be generous and fair in your assessments of others.

“Peace begins with a smile.”

I truly believe that you can change someone’s day with a smile. It is free and so easy to give and yet in today’s busy crazy world everyone seems too overwhelmed to share the simplest gift. I guarantee you, if you give one, you will receive an even bigger one in return. Could be the best return on investment in the world.

“If you are humble nothing will touch you, neither praise nor disgrace, because you know what you are.”

Being humble means that you believe in your heart that you are of lower importance and not arrogant in word, deed or action. To be truly humble is the ultimate in respect and love for your fellow mankind. Insincerity is easily spotted.

“Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal.”

We have all the brain power and gifts we need, look inside and find YOUR dream and set about making it come true. Who says you can’t? They are wrong.

“Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.”

Each person needs to give to their community and neighborhood. Vote, help at the Senior Center, assist a neighbor with a tree that fell in their yard – small acts that make a difference in your smaller world add to the greater good of the entire world.

“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.”

Why do we always remember the mean things that people say? Please consider your words before speaking, they last longer than you will imagine. If you are angry, take a break from the conversation and come back when you have calmed down. You can apologize for harsh words but not erase them. Be kind and speak honestly when giving compliments: it WILL make a difference to someone.

“Life is a game, play it.”

Heck yes – enjoy your life! Be smart, make good decisions and LIVE!

“Joy is a net of love in which you can catch souls.”

Being happy inspires others to be the same: trust me! What is better than contagious laughter? Nothing! Be joyful and share it with others. Not feeling it today, find someone who is and I bet that your day will get brighter.

“Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible.”

If you know someone who is lonely, please include them at lunch, invite them to dinner or call them. Human connection is one of our greatest needs. I cannot imagine having to go a day without a hug, can you?

“Do small things, with great love.”

We may not be able to start an orphanage but there is something small that you can do today that will make someone else’s day. Spread random acts of good deeds. Each small action will spark another to do the same. Pay it forward.

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.”

My absolute favorite Mother Teresa quote that I think about daily as it reminds me of my Grandma who was joyful and smiling every day of her life despite living without many comforts of life and enduring many challenges. She truly left each person happier and I aspire to do the same. Every single person in this world has trials and tribulations as well as joy. How you present yourself to the world is your choice alone. Be a person that people love to be with BY CHOICE.

Mother Teresa’s wisdom reminds us that small acts of love and kindness can have a ripple effect, creating a more compassionate world. Her quotes encourage us to slow down, smile more, and be present for others in a meaningful way. Whether it’s a word of encouragement or a gesture of kindness, we all have the power to make a difference. Let her words guide you as you navigate your journey—one small, loving act at a time.

Who and what inspires you? What do you do with this inspiration?