Charlie Chaplin, 1889–1977, was a genius and a man way ahead of his time.

He was more than just a great inspirational thinker—he would also, quite literally, put his thoughts into actions, particularly when chose to use his highly acclaimed movies to send out his (often politically-condemning) messages.

Chaplin also made a powerful statement that entertainment and comedy can cross all language barriers, as he pioneered a method of silent acting, which took storm on theatre screens worldwide.

Charlie Chaplin starred in, wrote, produced, financed and directed his own films. His unusual style with bowler hat, moustache, loose pants and cane is recognised all over, from young to old.

Although Chaplin is often well remembered for his comedy and style, not as many are aware of his deeply inspirational words.

Here is one of my favourite quotes of his that, in my opinion, should resound the world over, just as his movies still touch all corners of the earth—even though it’s been over 100 years since the first one was made:

“As I began to love myself I found that anguish and emotional suffering are only warning signs that I was living against my own truth. Today, I know, this is authenticity.

As I began to love myself I understood how much it can offend somebody if I try to force my desires on this person, even though I knew the time was not right and the person was not ready for it, and even though this person was me. Today I call it respect.

As I began to love myself I stopped craving for a different life, and I could see that everything that surrounded me was inviting me to grow. Today I call it maturity.

As I began to love myself I understood that at any circumstance, I am in the right place at the right time, and everything happens at the exact right moment. So I could be calm. Today I call it self-confidence.

As I began to love myself I quit stealing my own time, and I stopped designing huge projects for the future. Today, I only do what brings me joy and happiness, things I love to do and that make my heart cheer, and I do them in my own way and in my own rhythm. Today I call it simplicity.

As I began to love myself I freed myself of anything that is no good for my health—food, people, things, situations, and everything that drew me down and away from myself. At first I called this attitude a healthy egoism. Today, I know it is love of oneself.

As I began to love myself I quit trying to always be right, and ever since I was wrong less of the time. Today I discovered that is modesty.

As I began to love myself I refused to go on living in the past and worrying about the future. Now, I only live for the moment, where everything is happening. Today I live each day, day by day, and I call it fulfillment.

As I began to love myself I recognised that my mind can disturb me and it can make me sick. But as I connected it to my heart, my mind became a valuable ally. Today I call this connection wisdom of the heart. 

We no longer need to fear arguments, confrontations, or any kind of problems with ourselves or others. Even stars collide, and out of their crashing new worlds are born. Today I know that is life! ~ Charles Chaplin

Author: Alex Sandra Myles

Editor: Emily Bartran

Photo: Insomnia Cured Here/Flickr