Angelina Jolie is an actress, a filmmaker, a humanitarian, a UN ambassador, and a mother. Besides being incredibly successful, Angelina always takes the time to encourage and inspire those around her. Be it when she’s giving a speech at a Teen Choice Awards show, or fighting for the rights of the refugees at the UN, Angelina is constantly setting an example of how we can be better people.
Here are five times Angelina Jolie inspired us:
1. When she reminded us to be different, like Maleficent
Society always tries to make us fit into their little box. It has a certain set of rules it wants us to follow, and anyone out of place is labeled weird or ‘too much’ of something. Angelina reminded us that it’s okay to be different, and not fitting in can be a thing to celebrate, and that we shouldn’t diminish ourselves to conform to what others think we should be like.
2. When she wanted to be Bond
When asked if she would ever play a ‘Bond Girl,’ Angelina Jolie responded that she would gladly be in a Bond movie, however not as a love interest, but instead as the main character—Bond. Angelina knows her talent, and knows that she is way above playing a ‘Bond girl.’ She knew she could do better and said so. Angelina never sells herself short and you shouldn’t either.
3. When she fought for Syria
Angelina brought back the humanity to a situation that was being looked at through the eyes of calculation—The Syrian Refugee Crisis. During a meeting with the UN, she appealed to what is right, not what is logical. She challenged the UN and unwillingness to help the refugees. Angelina used her voice to speak up for the voiceless refugees and fought for the people of Syria reminding us that we too cannot turn our backs to those who are suffering, and we must use our voices to stand up for those in need.
4. When she reminded us that life isn’t fair, and we are privileged to be living the way we are.
Angelina reminded us that we are blessed to be living the life we are living and others aren’t so fortunate. She could have easily said, “I worked hard and that’s why I’m here,” but she didn’t because that isn’t entirely true. Many people work hard, but because of their lack of opportunities, they are stuck in a life of poverty. Angelina reminds us that we are blessed to be in our situations, and calls us to remember those who are not as privileged.
5. When she taught us exude kindness.
Angelina showed us that if we exude kindness and caring, then that is what will rub off on others. Selflessness is an important trait, and if we live selflessly, then that trait might transfer to others.
Angelina Jolie is an incredible person but not only because she is a successful Hollywood star. She is an inspiration to her fans and many others and has taught us many lessons of the years: be kind, think of others, be grateful, be different, and don’t ever sell yourself short.
