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Spartan Surfers

1897–1937

Amelia Earhart

American aviator. In 1928 she became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic, as a passenger, and wrote 20 Hrs. 40 Min. about it.

7 sourced lines

Every line we carry

Each one links to its source, what it means, and the shirt in any of our looks.

  1. Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace.

    Earhart wrote this poem before her first Atlantic flight. Peace of mind is not given; it is paid for with courage. Pay it, and you are free of the small fears.

    "Courage", printed in 20 Hrs. 40 Min. (1928), Introduction by Marion Perkins, Original English (20 Hrs. 40 Min., 1928)

  2. The soul that knows not courage knows no release from little things.

    Without courage, Earhart says, you stay trapped by small worries. Bravery is what lifts you above them. Do one brave thing and watch the little things shrink.

    "Courage", printed in 20 Hrs. 40 Min. (1928), Introduction by Marion Perkins, Original English (20 Hrs. 40 Min., 1928)

  3. Each time we make a choice, we pay with courage.

    Every real decision closes other doors and opens you to risk. Earhart says that cost is fair. Choose, pay, and do not look back with resentment.

    "Courage", printed in 20 Hrs. 40 Min. (1928), Introduction by Marion Perkins, Original English (20 Hrs. 40 Min., 1928)

  4. I wanted to fly.

    Earhart describes her first air show, with dust in her father's eyes and planes she barely understood. One thing was clear. When you know what you want, say it in four words and start.

    20 Hrs. 40 Min. (1928), ch. 2, Early Aviation, Original English (20 Hrs. 40 Min., 1928)

  5. Progress is made always through experimentation.

    The early planes were full of flaws, and that was how they got better. Trying, failing and adjusting is the only road forward. Run the experiment.

    20 Hrs. 40 Min. (1928), ch. 2, Early Aviation, Original English (20 Hrs. 40 Min., 1928)

  6. Tomorrow I am free to fly.

    After weeks of speeches and writing following her flight, Earhart finished her book and wrote this. Duties done, the sky opens again. Clear the desk, then go do what you love.

    20 Hrs. 40 Min. (1928), ch. 13, Retrospect, Original English (20 Hrs. 40 Min., 1928)

  7. The joy of a share, however small, in a great adventure.

    Earhart insisted the credit for the 1928 flight belonged to the pilots; she was a passenger. Her reward was being part of it. A small role in a great thing is worth having.

    20 Hrs. 40 Min. (1928), ch. 13, Retrospect, Original English (20 Hrs. 40 Min., 1928)