Frederick Douglass is known for his work as a social reformer, statesman, and abolitionist. But did you know that he also had a strong passion for leisure activities? Despite his busy schedule, Douglass made sure to allocate time for his hobbies, which helped him give his best in every aspect of his life.
One of Douglass’s favorite pastimes was photography. In the 1840s, photography was still in its infancy, but Douglass was captivated by the art form and believed it could serve as a tool to advance his activism. He often sat for portraits, and he even learned how to take pictures himself. In his 1871 autobiography, Douglass wrote, “I have made myself acquainted with the processes of the art…and have succeeded, I think, in taking some very good pictures.”
Another of Douglass’s hobbies was gardening. He took great pleasure in cultivating his garden, both for the beauty of the plants and the bounty of the harvest. Douglass was also an avid reader, and he often spent his free time with a book in hand.
But Douglass’s leisure pursuits weren’t just for personal enjoyment. He also recognized their role in his overall wellbeing. Douglass wrote, “Man is not made for work alone, and when he attempts the impossible, he often breaks down in health or spirit…I have always had time to devote to pleasure.”
In fact, Douglass believed that leisure was a crucial aspect of his activism. He wrote, “The man who is constantly at work on the reform of society becomes mentally and morally unbalanced…In order to keep a clear head and sound heart, one must let the mind and the affections turn now and then from the stern task of reform to the attractive charms of life.”
Douglass’s dedication to his hobbies offers a lesson for us all. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to put our passions and leisure pursuits on the back burner. But as Douglass reminds us, leisure isn’t just a luxury—it’s a vital component of a fulfilling life. By making time for the activities that bring us joy, we not only enrich our own lives, but we also become better equipped to make a difference in the world.
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