197 Quotes about Life from Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem (by Suzy Kassem)

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Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem quotes about life

Transformations are a part of life. We are constantly being changed by things changing around us.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


True beauty is measured by the number of pearls within you, not those around your neck.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Three things have a limited threshold:Time, pain, and death.While truth, love, and knowledge –Are boundless.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You were born a winner, a warrior, one who defied the odds by surviving the most gruesome battle of them all – the race to the egg. And now that you are a giant, why do you even doubt victory against smaller numbers and wider margins? The only walls that exist are those you have placed in your mind. And whatever obstacles you conceive, exist only because you have forgotten what you have already achieved.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Comedy is a necessity to get through life with the fewest scars. Humor is the best antidote to help relieve all struggles.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Be music always. Keep changing the keys, tones, pitch, and volume of each of the songs you create along your life’s journey and play on.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


We become responsible for the actions of others the instant we become conscious of what they are doing wrong and fail to remind them of what is right.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


ACTS OF LOVELove is not a wordOr a thought.It is the name forAn actionThat breathes from its light.What do you DOIn Love’s name?And is it only doneOutside In the light?Or with an innerFlameIlluminatingLove’sTRUEName?I want to know.Are your actionsDone by remoteOr withSOUL?And when you sayYou love someone, Does a light go offInside at all?What haveYOUDoneIn theName ofLOVE?Because, Really, I want to know.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Be yourself because an original is worth more than a copy.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Before asserting a prognosis on any patient, always be objective and never subjective. For telling a man that he will win the treasure of life, but then later discovering that he will lose, will harm him more than by telling him that he may lose, but then he wins.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The dead are immune from our prison of Time. The distance between the living and dead may be vast, but the space of Time the dead experience when they are reunited with their loved ones is only paper-thin.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Fear attracts the darkness. When you have no fear, the darkness fears you.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If life throws you a few bad notes or vibrations, don’t let them interrupt or alter your song.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Truth waits to be found. It searches for no one.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


There is at least one truth in every myth.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


BLESSINGS ARE IMMEASURABLEYou canLose a childOr a parent, The love of your life, A good job, A game, A deal, A bet, An idea, Your favorite thing, Money, Your best friend, A moment, An opportunity, A chance, Your keys, Your mind, Your health, Your identity, Your virginity, Your religion, Your shirt, Your license, ID or Passport, Phone or phone number, Hope, Faith, Luck, Your pride, Or your house, And feel likeYou’ve lost everything, And keep on losing.StopCounting lossesAnd start counting your blessings.Only then, Will you discover that lossesAre easier to point outAnd countThan blessings, And that blessingsOutnumber your lossesFor they are trulyImmeasurable.It is only normal thatPeople count losses withTheir minds, And ignoreTo count blessingsWith the graciousnessOf their hearts.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


We are all beautiful instruments of God. He created many notes in music so that we would not be stuck playing the same song. Be music always. Keep changing the keys, tones, pitch, and volume of each of the songs you create along your journey and play on. Nobody will ever reach ultimate perfection in this lifetime, but trying to achieve it is a full-time job. Start now and don’t stop. Make your book of life a musical. Never abandon obligations, but have fun leaving behind a colorful legacy. Never allow anybody to be the composer of your own destiny. Take control of your life, and never allow limitations implanted by society, tell you how your music is supposed to sound — or how your book is supposed to be written.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The true test of a warrior is how your ‘stance’ holds up after any ‘circumstance’. Meaning, even after the stormiest weather, a true warrior will still reflect the brilliant rays of the magnificent sun through both his or her eyes. You may get hit by sudden lightning or take severe beatings from the cruel wind, but you will always get back up and stand strong on your feet again, soak in the sunlight, and be prepared to get hit by even the most merciless hail – time and time again.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


When you go against the flow of nature and betray the spiritual laws existing within, there is, and always will be, a negative reaction. Those who try escaping life before fate shakes their hand, will forever be stuck on earth, chained to the place they so badly wanted to leave. What a complicated misery. I guarantee you it will be torture to be invisible and ignored by those you love when you can see them – but you are already dead for them to hear you utter another word. Talk about agony, more so, than remaining on this plane and continuing your spiritual cycle as it was written to be lived.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


It is only normal that people count losses with their minds, and ignore to count blessings with the graciousness of their hearts.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Suffering is imposed on us time and again so that one day we would become brave wise masters. That is, a strong being who is confidently aware of their intended direction in life, and fearlessly adding value to the world and their future.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


To enjoy each breathing day, you have to set time aside to play.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If you do not understand the Golden Rule, which is the most important law in the universe, then you are in trouble. All other rules in your holy books combined — are not as valuable as the ONE Golden Rule. Take two minutes to learn the most crucial law in life. Killing another human comes with the highest penalty, regardless of how you justify it. All life is sacred.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Understanding languages and other cultures builds bridges. It is the fastest way to bring the world closer together and to Truth. Through understanding, people will be able to see their similarities before differences.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You were born an original work of art. Stay original always. Originals cost more than imitations.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


We were all born to be peaceful citizens of the world. Take care of your global garden and do not allow evil gardeners to try and convince you which flowers are ugly and which should be destroyed. This is God’s universe and he is the master gardener of all. If you see ugliness in his creations, then you see ugliness in our Creator. Wake up. If we eliminate all colors in his garden, then what would be a rainbow with only one color? And what would be a garden with only one kind of flower? Why would the Creator create a vast assortment of plants, ethnicities, and animals, if only one beast or seed is to dominate all of existence?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


To test a man’s ego, simply ask him a complicated question. A good person will never be afraid to admit they don’t know the answer to something. And only when a man has fully dismantled his ego, can he begin to be truly good.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Right from the moment of our birth, we are under the care and kindness of our parents. Later on in life, when we are oppressed by sickness and become old, we are again dependent on the kindness of others. Since we are dependent on the kindness of others at the beginning and end of our lives, then how can we neglect projecting kindness towards others in the middle of our lives, when it is our best time to share it?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


MUSIC OF THE UNIVERSEWithout the orchestra of the universe, There would be no ether. And without its instrumentationBy the ether, There would be no waves. And without any waves, There would be no sound. And without sound, There would be no music. And without music, There would be no life. And without a life force, There would be no matter. But it does not matter – Because what is matter, If there is no light?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Nothing exists without a purpose. Every experience you have in this lifetime was written for you to grow into the light you were meant to be.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You cannot move things by not moving.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Time has always been the greatest ally to Truth, because Time eventually relieves and reveals all.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


CIRCLES OF LIFEEverythingTurns, Rotates, Spins, Circles, Loops, Pulsates, Resonates, AndRepeats.CirclesOf life, Born fromPulsesOf light, VibrateToBreathe, WhileSpiralingOutwardsForInfinityThroughThe lensOf time, And intoA seaOf starsAndLucidDreams.Poetry by Suzy Kassem

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The journey of the sun and moon is predictable, but yours is your ultimate art.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You can’t move things by not moving.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If you are not willing to stand up for anything or anybody, then why should the Creator take a single step to help you?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Humility is a virtue of the heavenly, not arrogance. Are we the most superior beast on earth? No, not in strength and not in intelligence. It is very arrogant to assume that we are the most intelligent species when we keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again. Both rats and monkeys have been shown to learn from error, yet we have not. More people have died in the name of religion than any other cause on earth. Is massacring God’s creations really serving God – or the devil? And what father would want to see his children constantly divided and fighting? What God would allow a single human life to be sacrificed for monetary gain? Again, the Creator or the devil?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If you hold a candle close to you, its flame rises. And if you hold it away from you, its flame shrinks. The same way you hold a candle close to you, keep all your plans, aspirations, projects, and dreams close to you too. Do not share your plans or goals until you complete them, because as you hold your candle away from you, your goals will shrink in the eyes of others. Envy, jealousy, and resentment will put out your flame before it grows. Never reveal what you are doing until you have accomplished it. Resentment does not only come from those close to you, but also distant strangers. Therefore, fiercely guard the passions burning inside your heart, so that their flames can safely reach the highest ceilings of success without the eyes of envy.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Much of human behavior can be explained by watching the wild beasts around us. They are constantly teaching us things about ourselves and the way of the universe, but most people are too blind to watch and listen.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


COMING FORTH INTO THE LIGHTI was born the dayI thought:What is?What was?AndWhat if?I was transformed the dayMy ego shattered, And all the superficial, materialThings that matteredTo me before, Suddenly ceasedTo matter.I really came into beingThe day I no longer cared aboutWhat the world thought of me, Only on my thoughts forChanging the world.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Any government that places profit before people is pure evil.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


FORKED BRANCHESWe grew up on the same street, You and me.We went to the same schools, Rode the same bus, Had the same friends, And even shared spaghettiWith each other’s families.And though our roots belong toThe same tree, Our branches have grownIn different directions.Our tree, Now resembles a thousandOther treesIn a sea of a trillionOther treesWith parallel destiniesAnd similar dreams.You cannot envy the branchThat grows biggerFrom the same seed, And you cannotBlame it on the sun’s direction.But you still compare us, As if we’re still those twoKids at the parkSlurping down slushies andEating ice cream. Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun (2010)

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You have no control over how your story begins or ends. But by now, you should know that all things have an ending. Every spark returns to darkness. Every sound returns to silence. Every flower returns to sleep with the earth. The journey of the sun and moon is predictable. But yours, is your ultimate art.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Fear nothing but your conscience.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


By studying yesterday, you will understand today.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Your heart has a powerful little antenna and its pulses and vibrations can be felt throughout the universe.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


I was transformed the dayMy ego shattered, And all the superficial, materialThings that matteredTo me before, Suddenly ceasedTo matter.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Any system that values profit over human life is a very dangerous one indeed. Simply put, it lacks values, and such a system will eventually collapse once its true light is discovered by the masses. Though some say that capitalism is a modern system, corruption has been the source for the demise of every great civilization.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


I do what I do because I love God, as I love your children, as I love humanity, as I love peace, truth, and justice for all. I may not be a fan of religion, but I am a big fan of God. I choose not to subscribe to any one religion because I recognize truths in them all — both the truths and flaws. For anybody to believe that any father would want to see his children fighting is madness. It does not make the Creator happy to see anybody massacre any of his beautiful creations. If you must know the religion I choose, I choose LOVE. If you must know the name of my god, his name is Truth, or rather ‘He Who is One, The One Who is All.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The purer your heart, the lighter your spirit will be. The lighter your spirit, the closer to light it will float. The closer to light it is permitted to go, the higher it will float. The higher it floats, the closer to God you will be. Heaven has seven layers. The vibrations of your good deeds, which will be reflected by the weight of your conscience and the purity of your heart, will determine the layer in which your soul will reside. Your goal is to make your heart as light as a feather. The heavier the heart, the more chained to this hell it will remain.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


This is God’s universe and he is the master gardener of all. If we were to eliminate all colors in his garden, then what would be a rainbow with only one color? Or a garden with only one kind of flower? Why would the Creator create a vast assortment of plants, ethnicities, and animals, if only one beast or seed is to dominate all of existence?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Seeking knowledge is mandatory for every human being, as the quest for truth is the true purpose of living. We are given an entire lifetime to collect and assemble truths. Truths are acquired only when we learn to filter all information, including those valuable lessons and insights gained from our own personal experiences, through our conscience. And as we near death, the knowledge in our hearts at the end must match the knowledge which was put in our hearts in the very beginning. All else is irrelevant.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If you hold a candle close to you, its flame rises. And if you hold it away from you, its flame shrinks. The same way you hold a candle close to you, keep all your plans, aspirations, projects, and dreams close to you too. Do not share your plans or goals until you complete them, because as you hold your candle away from you, your goals will shrink in the eyes of others. Envy, jealousy, and resentment will put out your flame before it grows.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Creativity is the most supreme form of love. When it flows from any heart flooded by truth and light, it can change all those who encounter its seductive vibrations.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Regardless of your chosen faith, at the end of your life’s journey, your heart will be measured in two ways. One, the weight of your conscience must far outweigh the weight of a feather. Two, any impurities in your heart must weigh no more than one feather. The purer your heart, the lighter your spirit will be. The lighter your spirit, the closer to light it will float. The closer to light it is permitted to go, the higher it will float. The higher it floats, the closer to God you will be. Heaven has seven layers. The vibrations of your good deeds, which will be reflected by the weight of your conscience and the purity of your heart, will determine the layer in which your soul will reside. Your goal is to make your heart as light as a feather. The heavier the heart, the more chained to this hell it will remain.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Whatever your passion is, keep doing it. Don’t waste time chasing after success or comparing yourself to others. Every flower blooms at a different pace. Excel at doing what your passion is and only focus on perfecting it. Eventually people will see what you are great at doing, and if you are truly great, success will come chasing after you.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Sometimes God will place a wall on your path to force you to go in another direction.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


KEY OF LIFEThe key of lifeSymbolizes the mapOf existence.Once you free yourselfFrom all resistance, Your path will become white -For the remainder of the distance.Poetry by Suzy Kassem

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


We awaken by asking the right questions. We awaken when we see knowledge being spread that goes against our own personal experiences. We awaken when we see popular opinion being wrong but accepted as being right, and what is right being pushed as being wrong. We awaken by seeking answers in corners that are not popular. And we awaken by turning on the light inside when everything outside feels dark.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


We must all work in harmony with each other to stand up for what is right, to speak up for what is fair, and to always voice any corrections so that the ignorant become informed and justice is never ignored. Every time a person allows an act of ignorance to happen, they delay our progress for true change. Every person, molecule and thing matters. We become responsible for the actions of others the instant we become conscious of what they are doing wrong and fail to remind them of what is right.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Life is like a piano. White keys are happy moments and the black ones are sad moments. Both keys are played together to give us the sweet music called Life.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Take care of your life force and always keep it streaming. Always be active and creative, and never ever stop dreaming.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Faith is the emperor of dreams.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


More people have died in the name of religion than any other cause on earth. Is massacring God’s creations really serving God – or the devil? And what father would want to see his children constantly divided and fighting? What God would allow a single human life to be sacrificed for monetary gain? Again, the Creator or the devil?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A human being can only take so much when their basic rights as a citizen of the earth are being denied to them – or sold at a high cost.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You are a valuable instrument in the orchestration of your own world, and the overall harmony of the universe. Always be in command of your music. Only you can control and shape its tone. If life throws you a few bad notes or vibrations, don’t let them interrupt or alter your song.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The moth prefers the moon and detests the sun, while the butterfly loves the sun and hides from the moon. Every living creature responds to light. But depending on the amount of light you have inside, determines which lamp in the sky your heart will swoon.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Like the weather or bonds between lovers, transformations can never be predicted. All energy transmutes one day or another, in one way or another. Either in its form or composition, or in its position or disposition.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Nothing threatens a corrupt system like a free mind.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


REMEMBER YOUR GREATNESSBefore you were born, And were still too tiny forThe human eye to see, You won the race for lifeFrom among 250 million competitors.And yet, How fast you have forgottenYour strength, When your very existenceIs proof of your greatness.You were born a winner, A warrior, One who defied the oddsBy surviving the most gruesomeBattle of them all.And now that you are a giant, Why do you even doubt victoryAgainst smaller numbers, And wider margins?The only walls that exist, Are those you have placed in your mind.And whatever obstacles you conceive, Exist only because you have forgottenWhat you have alreadyAchieved.Poetry by Suzy Kassem

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If you hold a candle close to you, its flame rises. And if you hold it away from you, its flame shrinks. The same way you hold a candle close to you, keep all your plans, aspirations, projects, and dreams close to you too. Do not share your plans or goals until you complete them, because as you hold your candle away from you — envy, jealousy, and resentment may put out your flame before it grows.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Stop counting your losses and start counting your blessings. Only then will you discover that losses are always easier to point out and count than blessings. And that your blessings will always outnumber your losses, for they are truly immeasurable.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Life has pounded me downand thrashed me around, Time and time again, But I always get right back up, Because I still love life -Just as the earth still lovesThe rain.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Like the weather or bonds between lovers, transformations can never be predicted.All energy transmutes one day or another, in one way or another. Either in its form or composition. Or in its position or disposition.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The only walls that exist are those you have placed in your mind. And whatever obstacles you conceive, exist only because you have forgotten what you have already achieved.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A relationship that is truly genuine does not keep changing its colors. Real gold never rusts. If a relationship is really solid and golden, it will be unbreakable. Not even Time can destroy its shine.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Being different and thinking different makes a person unforgettable. History does not remember the forgettable.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Be Yourself. An original is worth more than a copy

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


THE MAXIMS OF MEDICINE Before you examine the body of a patient, Be patient to learn his story.For once you learn his story, You will also come to knowHis body.Before you diagnose any sickness, Make sure there is no sickness in the mind or heart.For the emotions in a man’s moon or sun, Can point to the sickness inAny one of his other parts.Before you treat a man with a condition, Know that not all cures can heal all people.For the chemistry that works on one patient, May not work for the next, Because even medicine has its ownConditions.Before asserting a prognosis on any patient, Always be objective and never subjective.For telling a man that he will win the treasure of life, But then later discovering that he will lose, Will harm him more than by telling himThat he may lose, But then he wins.THE MAXIMS OF MEDICINE by Suzy Kassem

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A pineapple is a compilation of berries that grow and fuse together. When joined, they create a single fruit. And within each eyelet, contains a location where a flower may grow. I see the Creator of all existence as the crown on a pineapple, and all religions of the world as the spiky eyelets, where each eyelet symbolizes a different religion or race under the same crown. Each garden of faith may have different perspectives of God, yet every garden belongs to the same God.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Apathy is the door to ignorance. Empathy is the door to wisdom.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


We are taught to fear anything that can bring us closer to death — to keep us from taking huge leaps that involve risk. The only thing you should fear in this lifetime is not taking risks while you are living. I do not mean to go jump off a bridge. I mean, to go all out to reach your dreams, to dare to do things you typically would not do out of fear. Pain has a threshold and so does death. Fear neither, and never fear what has no right to be feared.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If life throws you a few bad notes, don’t let them interrupt your song.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Work on making yourself a complete being. Though you were born with the physical traits of one sex, you possess the characteristics of both – including those of plants and animals. You were created as a nearly complete universal being, but with flaws. True perfection can only be achieved when one recognizes that they need to combine their oneness with others and nature. Only then is one considered complete.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


In Egyptian Arabic, the word ‘insan’ means ‘human’. If we remove the ‘n’, the word becomes ‘insa’, which means ‘to forget’. So you see, the word ‘forget’ is taken from the word ‘human’. And since it was God who created our minds and hearts, He knew from the very beginning that we would quickly forget our history, only to keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again. So the ultimate test of every human is to seek wisdom. After all, wisdom is gained from having a good memory. Only after we have passed this test will we evolve to become better humans. Man is only a forgetful mortal, but God — He sees, hears and remembers everything.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Destiny reveals itself only when there is truth and action.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


MOTHER IS WATERI wish I couldShower your head with flowersAnd anoint your feet with my tears, For I know I have caused youSo much heartache, frustration and despair –Throughout my youthful years.I wish I could give youThe remainder of my lifeTo add to yours, Or simply eraseThe lines on your face, And mend all that has been torn.For next to God, You are the fireThat has given lightTo the flame in each of my eyes.You are the fountainThat nourished my growth, And from your chalice –Gave me life.Without the wetness of your love, The fragrance of your water, Or the trickling sounds ofYour voice, I shall always feelthirsty.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Without sound, There would be no music.And without music, There would be no life.And without a life force, There would be no matter.But it does not matter -Because what is matter, If there is no light?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Regardless of your chosen faith, at the end of your life’s journey, your heart will be measured in two ways. One, the weight of your conscience must far outweigh the weight of a feather. Two, any impurities in your heart must weigh no more than one feather.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


How will people remember you when you are gone? And for how long until they forget? Were you selfish or selfless? A gossip or a patient listener? Did you add value to the world, or did you simply take from it? Did you add value to the lives of others, or did you take the value out of someone’s life? Were you a plus or negative? Meaningful or meaningless? Do you live to take or live to give?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Sometimes we have to soak ourselves in the tears and fears of the past to water our future gardens.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The smaller the creature, the bolder its spirit.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You can control the visibility of my name and my popularity, but you cannot control the frequency at which people are quoting me. Truth always rises with time.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A lion does not flinch at laughter coming from a hyena.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Profit should never come at the cost of human blood. Any government that places profit before people is pure evil.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Control your vibrations and you are the master of your own harmony.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Every spark returns to darkness. Every sound returns to silence. Every flower returns to sleep with the earth. The journey of the sun and moon is predictable. But yours, is your ultimateart.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Great people will always be mocked by those who feel smaller than them. Yet a lion does not flinch at laughter coming from a hyena. A gorilla does not budge from a banana thrown at it by a monkey. A nightingale does not stop singing its beautiful song at the intrusion of an annoying woodpecker. Whenever you should question your self-worth, always remember the lotus flower. Even though it plunges to life from beneath the mud, it does not allow the dirt that surrounds it to affect its growth or beauty. Do not allow any negativity or ugliness in your surroundings destroy your confidence or affect your growth. Always be confident and courageous with your truths and the directions set out by your heart. It is very normal for one ugly weed to not want to stand alone.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Every flower blooms at a different pace.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Beauty is in the heart of the beholder.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


THREE BASIC TRUTHSThree things have a limited threshold: Time, pain, and death.While truth, love, and knowledge –Are boundless.Three things are needed For humanity to co-exist:Truth, peace and basic needs.Everything else -Is irrelevant.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Every flower blooms at its own pace.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Faith keeps our ships moving, while empathy and the memories of our experiences lead to wisdom.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Friends can become enemies, and enemies can become friends. Ego and pride can turn what is good into bad, and kind words can turn what is bad into something good.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


From time to time, one must release the grime built up inside them to to free their emotions like the ocean.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Make your book of life a musical. Never abandon obligations, but have fun leaving behind a colorful legacy. Never allow anybody to be the composer of your own destiny. Take control of your life, and never allow limitations implanted by society tell you how your music is supposed to sound — or how your book is supposed to be written.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Transformations are a part of life. We are constantly being changed by things changing around us. Nobody can control that. Nobody can control the environment, the economy, luck, or the moods of others. Compositions change. Positions change. Dispositions change. Experiences change. Opportunities and attitudes change. You will change.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


There are two missions we are obligated to carry out during our life journey. The first, is to seek Truth throughout our lifetime. The second, is simply to be good. Engrave it in your mind that life is just one big board game where you have to make it from start to finish by being good. That is all you have to do. The hardest part, is dealing with all the obstacles that prevent smooth sailing. The trick is, to always strive to be the right person in all situations – regardless of personal cost to you. Your aim is to make sure the right book on your shoulder weighs more that the bad book on the left. The scales are real. Regardless of your chosen faith, there is a measurement system to be found in all of the world’s religions. After all, does it make sense for all souls, good or bad, to end up in the same place? Of course not. To really secure the very best setting in the afterlife, the vibrations of your good deeds must surpass your death.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


We grew up on the same street, You and me.We went to the same schools, Rode the same bus, Had the same friends, And even shared spaghettiWith each other’s families.And though our roots belong toThe same tree, Our branches have grownIn different directions.Our tree, Now resembles a thousandOther treesIn a sea of a trillionOther treesWith parallel destiniesAnd similar dreams.You cannot envy the branchThat grows biggerFrom the same seed, And you cannotBlame it on the sun’s direction.But you still compare us, As if we’re still those twoKids at the parkSlurping down slushies andEating ice cream.Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun (2010)

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Our evolution depends on our memory. If we keep forgetting the mistakes of the past, only to keep repeating them, then we will never change. Humanity will never move forward, spiritually or morally, to become superior beings.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


When you find yourself in the thickness of pursuing a goal or dream, stop only to rest. Momentum builds success.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You are not just for the right or left, but for what is right over the wrong.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Never look back. The past is done. The future is a blank canvas. Work on creating a masterpiece. Only you have the power to make your painting beautiful.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The world you are in –Is the true hell.The journey to Truth itselfIs what quickens the heart to become lighter.The lighter the heart, the purer it is.The purer the heart, the closer to light it becomes.And the heavier the heart, The more chained to this hellIt will remain.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The number of ways you can live in one lifetime is limitless. So why limit yourself?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


THE NAKED HEARTFrom womb to tomb, There came and went -Only you.Poor or rich, You will die withOnly you.All the wealth you harvestIn the living, Will go to others when you are dead.But the true test of a lion of God -Is to keep giving with your own hands, Before you rest in your final bed.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Stay true to yourself. An original is worth more than a copy.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


When a child keeps asking you to tell him/her a story, what they instinctively really want to know is their true purpose and mission in life. Sadly, this knowledge was never sought out by their parents, and explains why children’s books are a very hot and lucrative industry. Instead of telling your child how to become a compassionate citizen of the world, or how to live a meaningful existence by being a positive asset to humanity, you are conditioned by society to simply read your kid a fairytale.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


THE MOTH AND THE BUTTERFLYWhen the sun rises over the horizon, the butterfly emerges to dance in its brilliant light.It flickers its colorful wings with euphoria, To celebrate all the beauty foundin the majestic garden of life.When the moon arrives in the darkness, The moth appears at the disappearance of sunlight.It flickers its pale wings as it shakes from its deep slumber, To go search for foodTo carry it through the night.The moth prefers the moon and detests the sun, while the butterfly loves the sun and hides from the moon.Every living creature responds to light, But depending on the amount of light you have inside, Determines which lamp in the skyYour heart will swoon. Poetry by Suzy Kassem

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


YOU ARE JUSTYou are not just for the right or left, but for what is right over the wrong.You are not just rich or poor, but always wealthy in the mind and heart.You are not perfect, but flawed.You are flawed, but you are just.You may just be conscious human, but you are also a magnificentreflection of God.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


UNDIVIDEDI am for One world undivided. One world without fear and corruption. One world ruled by Truth and Justice. I am forOne peaceful world for all, Where hate has been overcome by love, And everyone is guided only By their conscience.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Life is no different than the weather. Not only is it unpredictable, but it shows us a new perspective of the world every day.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The key to a wonderful life is to never stop wandering into wonder.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


They say that animals are incapable of feelings and reasoning. This is false. No living thing on earth is void of either. They also say that man is the most intelligent — and the most superior — species on earth. This is also false. It is very arrogant to assume that we are the most intelligent species when we keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again. It has been shown that both rats and monkeys learn from making errors, yet we have not. Our history proves this. All creatures on earth have the capacity to love and grieve the same way we do. No life on the planet is more deserving than another. Those who think so, are the true savages.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


ENDURANCEI don’t know you, But I love you, Just as God loves me and you.The sun and the moonAre opposing forces, But they still greet each other, Peacefully, As one awakens in the morning, Just as the other goes to sleep.Life has pounded me downAnd thrashed me around, Time and time again, But I always get right back up, Because I still love life -Just as the earth still lovesThe rain.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If man could write his own fate, he would have designed his journey to be without obstacles. Yet all obstacles come with valuable lessons designed just for you and only you. Suffering is imposed on us time and again so that one day we would become brave wise masters. That is, a strong being who is confidently aware of their intended direction in life, and fearlessly adding value to the world and their future.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A memorable heart is the easiest way to immortality.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Spend your time with those who love you unconditionally, not with those who only love you under certain conditions.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


WHO AM I?I have seven heavenly panelsLeading up to a pointed sphereI’m multidimensional like a crystalAnd my center is never clear.I’m an inventor and pioneer.A mentor to my peers.But I’m not as sound as my shell reveals, Because I’m tormented by my fears -That may appear to be groundedBut my insides are filled with tears.And the sadness is well-founded, From years and yearsOf traumatic experiencesCompoundedIn the most dementedAtmospheres.I talk but feel like nobody hears.Has reason disappeared?And, God, are you near?This is Giza’s 7th light forceAnd I’m asking you to interfere.I can no longer walk amongst the blind and deadWith open eyes and ears.I’m trying to maintain my sanityAnd to straighten up my veneerAs I roll amongst the growing calamitiesFlowing on Earth’s severely trashedFrontier.Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun (2010)

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


To know the good from the bad, measure the heart. Actions reveal the true coloring of one’s heart, not their intentions.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Behind every effect there is a cause. You can never eliminate an effect without first understanding its cause.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You are not white, but a rainbow of colors.You are not black, but golden.You are not just a nationality, but a citizen of the world.You are not just for the right or left, but for what is right over the wrong.You are not just rich or poor, but always wealthy in the mind and heart.You are not perfect, but flawed.You are flawed, but you are just.You may just be conscious human, but you are also a magnificentreflection of God.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Always be respectful and open-minded when listening to another man’s beliefs. What you reject today could be your mantra tomorrow. Man’s evolution is all about transformations. An unexpected experience you have one day can change you forever.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


NOT UNTIL I MET YOUNot until I felt your sunshine, Did I realize that I had been in the shade.Not until I saw all your colors, Did I realize that mine had faded.Not until I heard your dreams, Did I realize that I was still sleeping.And not until I experienced my life with you, Did I realize that I was barelyBreathing.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Earth, water, fire, and wind. Where there is energy there is life.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A gorilla does not budge from a banana thrown at it by a monkey.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Any system that values profit over human life is a very dangerous one indeed.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


And though our roots belong to the same tree, our branches have grown in different directions.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If the fire in your heart is strong enough, it will burn away any obstacles that come your way.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A woman’s body is a sacred temple. A work of art, and a life-giving vessel. And once she becomes a mother, her body serves as a medicine cabinet for her infant. From her milk she can nourish and heal her own child from a variety of ailments. And though women come in a wide assortment as vast as the many different types of flowers and birds, she is to reflect divinity in her essence, care and wisdom. God created a woman’s heart to be a river of love, not to become a killing machine.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Sometimes to change a situation you are in requires you to take a giant leap. But, you won’t be able to fly unless you are willing to transform.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If all men are made in God’s reflection, then why do some people continue to acknowledge only what is in their part of the mirror? If every man was truly created equal, and in the image of God, then how can any man claim that one race is better than another, or that one nation is less deserving than another?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Many people will never learn the lessons meant for them in this lifetime, nor become the person they were meant to be, simply because they are too busy being someone else.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Always have faith in yourself and the universe, for one will not get you anywhere without the other. Both must be equally strong to reach your desires, for they are the wings that will lift you to your dreams.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Make your book of life a musical. Never abandon obligations, but have fun leaving behind a colorful legacy. Never allow anybody to be the composer of your own destiny. Take control of your life, and don’t allow limitations implanted by society tell you how your music is supposed to sound — or how your book is supposed to be written.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Vibration is the core of the spirit. It is the breath of life.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Truth recognizes truth, just as a man with real talent is the first to recognize another with real talent. Likewise, superficiality attracts others with an artificial surface. Only the superficial applaud the superficial. A man of true substance rejects the superficial because he seeks only truth and depth. Based on this reasoning, you can easily measure the weight of any man’s character just by observing who he admires.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Be yourself because an original is worth more than just a copy.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If you can show people how to build castles, make sure you do not neglect building and nurturing your own.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If the Creator stood before a million men with the light of a million lamps, only a few would truly see him because truth is already alive in their hearts. Truth can only be seen by those with truth in them. He who does not have Truth in his heart, will always be blind to it.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The price for standing up for Truth, no matter how severe, will always be less than the price our souls will be penalized for not speaking up for our conscience. There is no greater crime in the universe than silencing your conscience.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The human body resonates at the same frequency as Mother Earth. So instead of only focusing on trying to save the earth, which operates in congruence to our vibrations, I think it is more important to be one with each other. If you really want to remedy the earth, we have to mend mankind. And to unite mankind, we heal the Earth. That is the only way. Mother Earth will exist with or without us. Yet if she is sick, it is because mankind is sick and separated. And if our vibrations are bad, she reacts to it, as do all living creatures.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The gut is the seat of all feeling. Polluting the gut not only cripples your immune system, but also destroys your sense of empathy, the ability to identify with other humans. Bad bacteria in the gut creates neurological issues. Autism can be cured by detoxifying the bellies of young children. People who think that feelings come from the heart are wrong. The gut is where you feel the loss of a loved one first. It’s where you feel pain and a heavy bulk of your emotions. It’s the central base of your entire immune system. If your gut is loaded with negative bacteria, it affects your mind. Your heart is the seat of your conscience. If your mind is corrupted, it affects your conscience. The heart is the Sun. The gut is the Moon. The pineal gland is Neptune, and your brain and nervous system (5 senses) are Mercury. What affects the moon or sun affects the entire universe within. So, if you poison the gut, it affects your entire nervous system, your sense of reasoning, and your senses.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Pick a leader who will make their citizens proud. One who will stir the hearts of the people, so that the sons and daughters of a given nation strive to emulate their leader’s greatness. Only then will a nation be truly great, when a leader inspires and produces citizens worthy of becoming future leaders, honorable decision makers and peacemakers. And in these times, a great leader must be extremely brave. Their leadership must be steered only by their conscience, not a bribe.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Every creature was designed to serve a purpose. Learn from animals for they are there to teach you the way of life. There is a wealth of knowledge that is openly accessible in nature. Our ancestors knew this and embraced the natural cures found in the bosoms of the earth. Their classroom was nature. They studied the lessons to be learned from animals. Much of human behavior can be explained by watching the wild beasts around us. They are constantly teaching us things about ourselves and the way of the universe, but most people are too blind to watch and listen.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Destiny is manifested only through action.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


When you keep hitting walls of resistance in life, the universe is trying to tell you that you are going the wrong way. It’s like driving a bumper car at an amusement park. Each time you slam into another car or the edge of the track, you are forced to change direction.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


It is what it is because you let it be so.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A person who is truly cool is a work of art. And remember, original works of art cost exponentially higher than imitations. Just take a look at the the coolest people in history. They will always be a part of history for being extremely original individuals, not imitations.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Great people will always be mocked by those who feel smaller than them.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A wealth of knowledge is openly accessible in nature. Our ancestors knew this and embraced the natural cures found in the bosoms of the earth. Their classroom was nature. They studied the lessons to be learned from animals, knowing that much of human behavior can be explained by watching the wild beasts around us. Animals are constantly teaching us things about ourselves and the way of the universe, but most people are too blind to watch and listen.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


When the heart is beautiful, its light shines though the eyes, vocal tones and actions of its owner.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


WILL YOU DANCE WITH MEAs we stand here, Hand in hand, Under the neon lightsOf Truth and Love.I’m asking you toDance with me.To twirl, Kick, Drop, Jump, And flyWith me.Skidding andSliding acrossThe dancefloor of life, I want you toGlide with me.Through theSaddest andHappiest songs, The fastest highsTo the longest andSlowest lows, I want you toFlow throughThem allWithMe.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


In the end, life is about collecting experiences and looking for the lesson and blessing in each one. Yet we are never to carry these experiences on our backs, only in our hearts. One will hold us back, while the other will keep us moving forward.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Capitalism is a social system owned by the capitalistic class, a small network of very wealthy and powerful businessmen, who compromise the health and security of the general population for corporate gain.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Three things are neededFor humanity to co-exist:Truth, peace and basic needs.Everything else -Is irrelevant.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The number of ways to live in one lifetime is limitless. So why limit yourself?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Empathy nurtures wisdom. Apathy cultivates ignorance.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Even after the stormiest weather, a true warrior will still reflect the brilliant rays of the magnificent sun through both his or her eyes. You may get hit by sudden lighting or take severe beatings from the cruel wind, but you will always get back up and stand strong on your feet again, soak in the sunlight, and be prepared to get hit by even the most merciless hail – time and time again.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The man armed with knowledge has a better chance of survival than the man who is simply the fittest. Knowledge is the true strength. Muscle is where the myth is.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Be yourself because an original is always worth more than a copy.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


HYMN OF THE DIVINE DANDELION I am born as the sun, But then turn into the moon, As my blonde hairs turn Grayish-white and fallTo the ground, Only to be buried again, Then to be born again, Into a thousand suns And a thousand Moons. Suzy Kassem

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Endangering human life for profit should be a universal crime.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Knowledge is strength. Ignorance is the kiss of death.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


You have no control over how your story begins or ends. But by now, you should know that all things have an ending. Every spark returns to darkness. Every sound returns to silence. Every flower returns to sleep with the earth. The journey of the sun and moon is predictable. But yours, is your ultimateart.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


If you study the rhythm of life on this planet, you will find that everything moves in perfect symphony with everything else — by grand divine design. The earth has the ability to heal and regenerate itself, just as our oceans have the ability to replenish themselves by turning over their debris with the waves to wash them ashore. This perfect orchestration of the cycle of life is one of the Creator’s greatest and most beautiful miracles. The earth will continue to exist with or without us. So the real concern should be, will we be able to continue to co-exist with each other?

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Know that it is your birthright to awaken. Seeking Truth is the ultimate quest of every moral citizen. Truth is felt first in the heart, and then the mind. The voice of your conscience comes from your heart, not your mind. The voice of reason comes from your mind, not your heart. Your mind is simply there to reason with your heart. Always listen to your heart first. Those who look for Truth through the mind before the heart will never find Truth. When you come close to Truth, the first sign will be an inner sense of liberation. Truth will NEVER imprison you. Only the repression of your conscience will. This is what is meant by ‘THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE’.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


One who gossips usually carries boredom in one hand and bitterness in the other.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Your mind can be your enemy or friend. If you always follow your heart, your mind will feel neglected. If you follow only your mind, your heart will never forgive you. Never ignore your conscience, yet always be conscious of reason. Make your heart and mind friends and you will have peace of mind throughout life’s seasons.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Everything turns in circles and spirals with the cosmic heart until infinity. Everything has a vibration that spirals inward or outward — and everything turns together in the same direction at the same time. This vibration keeps going: it becomes born and expands or closes and destructs — only to repeat the cycle again in opposite current. Like a lotus, it opens or closes, dies and is born again. Such is also the story of the sun and moon, of me and you. Nothing truly dies. All energy simply transforms.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Never judge someone’s character based on the words of another. Instead, study the motives behind the words of the person casting the bad judgment.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


I have been finding treasures in places I did not want to search. I have been hearing wisdom from tongues I did not want to listen. I have been finding beauty where I did not want to look. And I have learned so much from journeys I did not want to take. Forgive me, O Gracious One; for I have been closing my ears and eyes for too long. I have learned that miracles are only called miracles because they are often witnessed by only those who can can see through all of life’s illusions. I am ready to see what really exists on other side, what exists behind the blinds, and taste all the ugly fruit instead of all that looks right, plump and ripe.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


THE KEY TO A WONDERFUL LIFEThe key to a wonderful lifeIs to never stop wandering into wonder.Because to live a predictable life, Only fills a person with strife, And such a person will always be wondering:’What a limitless life could be lived beyond the lines?’Such is a question a curious spirit would never sit and ponder.So always pursue new ventures in your life, And be willing to open doors to different light;This is the only way to keep it magical and always filled with wonder.Days will feel shorter, but your happiness will grow stronger –Because living a life without curiosity and adventure, Is a stale life where days only feel longer andLonger.Poetry by Suzy Kassem

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Beware of those who are bored and not passionate about life, for they will bore you with reasons for not living.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


A life fueled by passions is like riding on the back of a dragon.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Beautiful is he who recognizes what is truly beautiful, Even if the surface is ugly.Truthful is he who says what is true, Even if the truth is ugly.Ugly is he who measures beauty by its exterior, Without first weighing the interior.And ugly is the man who judges harshly what he sees looking out, Without first judging what he sees in the mirror.Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun (2010)

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


In the last 10 years, we have seen a rise in selfishness: selfies, self-absorbed people, superficiality, self-degradation, apathy, and self-destruction. So I challenge all of you to take initiative to change this programming. Instead of celebrating the ego, let’s flip the script and celebrate the heart. Let’s put the ego and celebrity culture to sleep, and awaken the conscience. This is the battle we must all fight together to win back our humanity. To save our future and our children.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


I will not join the rat race because I’m not a rat. And I will not blindly follow a specific faith because I’m not a bat. The only race I’ll take part in is for humans being humane. It’s called the human race, and sadly it’s got the least participants.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Some people will follow their minds without listening to their hearts, and others will follow their hearts without listening to their minds. This is why reason exists, for there to be balance between the heart and mind. We were not meant to follow the mind and ignore the heart. Instead, we were meant to follow the heart over the mind, but without completely abandoning logic. The middle way is the preferred way, and this path simply means to allow your heart to drive you, but do not forget to balance reason with your conscience.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


DON’T SAY, DODo not say thingsYou think I want to hear.Instead, Say what you sincerely mean, And really intend to do.Do not think you are helping meBy occasionallyBeing here or there, If you really have no intentionOf holding my handAll the way through.Do not say you care for me, If you do not careWhenever I’m clearlyDown and blue.And do not want what’s best For you, If you do not wish the bestFor me too.Do not calculate gifts or deedsOr your giving will never feelGenuinely true.Just say what you meanAnd mean what you say, And let’s lay these down – As our love’sGolden rules.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Everything turns, rotates, spins, circles, loops, pulsates, resonates, and repeats.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


THE OLD MAN IN THE CORNERThe man in the cornerIs dying with wordsHe’s crying to be heardHis days are markedAnd his only ears are birdsHe knows the secret to peaceAnd his experience bleeds and hurtsSomebody stop and listenBefore he departs the earth!Somebody write his thoughtsBefore he hits the turf!His eyes are closing their shuttersAnd he just dropped hisBeads and stick.His breath is leaving us.Please!Somebody hear him out quick!A little girl rushes to him andPicks up his cane of wood.The old man then turns to herAnd faintly whispers, “The key to peace isTo always stay fairAnd be good.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The journey of the sun and moon is predictable. But yours, is your ultimate art.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


The perfect orchestration of the symphony of life is one of the Creator’s greatest and most beautiful miracles.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


THE FOUR HEAVENLY FOUNTAINSLaugh, I tell youAnd you will turn backThe hands of time.Smile, I tell youAnd you will reflectThe face of the divine.Sing, I tell youAnd all the angels will sing with you!Cry, I tell youAnd the reflections found in your pool of tears -Will remind you of the lessons of today and yesterdayTo guide you through the fears of tomorrow.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


It is very normal for one ugly weed to not want to stand alone.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem


Faith is the flame that eliminates fear, and faith is the emperor of dreams.

— Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem