"قدرت بدون مطالبه چیزی را واگذار نمی‌کند. هرگز نکرده و هرگز نخواهد کرد"

At the heart of this quote is the idea that change doesn’t just happen on its own. Power, whether it’s political, social, or economic, doesn’t just hand over its privileges without being pushed. Someone has to step up and make that demand. This is exactly what Frederick Douglass, the man behind this quote, was getting at. Douglass was a former slave who became a leading figure in the abolitionist movement. He understood firsthand that those in power won’t easily give up their dominance unless they are compelled to do so.

Imagine you’re in a job where you’ve been working hard for years, but you’ve never received a promotion or a raise. You’ve watched others get ahead while you remain stuck in the same position. You might think that if you just keep working hard, eventually your efforts will be recognized. But often, that’s not how it works. Companies, like many institutions, may not voluntarily offer you more unless you ask for it. You need to have a conversation with your boss, present your case, and demand the recognition and compensation you deserve. If you don’t, it’s likely no one will do it for you.

Let’s look at a real-life example: the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Think about the 1960s and figures like Martin Luther King Jr. African Americans were being denied basic human rights. The powers that were in place had no incentive to change the status quo. It took organized protests, marches, and not just polite requests, but outright demands for equality. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 didn't come about because the government suddenly had a change of heart. They came about because people demanded change, often at great personal risk.

So, how can you apply this in your own life? Start by recognizing areas where you want change. Maybe it’s at work, or in your community, or even in your personal relationships. Understand that waiting passively is unlikely to bring about the changes you want. Gather your thoughts, plan your approach, and make your demand clear and strong. It’s not about being aggressive or confrontational, but about being assertive and standing up for what you believe in.

To really bring this home, let’s think about a simple, relatable scenario. Imagine you’re part of a local club, and you’ve noticed that all the activities are planned by the same small group of people. You and others have ideas for new events, but the current leaders aren’t keen on listening. If you just sit back and hope they’ll change their minds, you’ll be waiting a long time. Instead, you need to rally others who share your vision, maybe set up a meeting, and present your ideas. Make it clear that there’s enthusiasm and demand for new things. When the group sees that you’re serious and that there’s a strong desire for change, they’re more likely to listen and adapt.

In the end, it’s about taking control of your own destiny and recognizing that the power to make a difference often lies in your hands. If you don’t demand what you deserve or what you believe in, it’s unlikely to just drop into your lap. So, take that step—make the demand.