Quotes   Teaching by Great Thinkers   Authors     Ralph Waldo Emerson Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 - 1882) was an American essayist, lecturer, philosopher, abolitionist and poet who led the transcendentalist movement of the mid-19th century.     Always do what you are afraid to do. Ralph Waldo Emerson To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. Ralph Waldo Emerson Every man is a divinity in disguise, a god playing the fool. Ralph Waldo Emerson It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself. Ralph Waldo Emerson The only way to have a friend is to be one. Ralph Waldo Emerson Common sense is genius dressed in its working clothes Ralph Waldo Emerson Fate is nothing but the deeds committed in a prior state of existence. Ralph Waldo Emerson