I have neither been miserable because of the ill-feeling of those about me, nor indifferent to popular approval; and I think, upon the whole, I have passed a tolerably cheerful and even joyful life.
Reflecting on the pervasive prejudice he faced, Douglass asserts that he maintained a cheerful and joyful life, neither succumbing to misery nor being indifferent to public opinion.
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More from Frederick Douglass
But whether it shall come late or come soon will depend mainly upon ourselves.
The nation or people which shall comply with them will rise, and those which violate them will fall, and perhaps will disappear altogether.