Audrey Hepburn Abstract

Living an abundant life implies having someone to teach you how to live. A truly successful life leaves something valuable for the posterity, something others can use or assimilate, something that can be the solution for others problems. Many personalities have left a path for others to follow, their life and actions being more than an inspiring message for their admirers.

As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others. said Audrey Hepburn, the woman ranked by the American Film Institute as the greatest female screen legend in the history of American cinema. She had everything she could ever wish, but still she considered that fame is not enough: those whose names are unknown need mercy and it is everyones responsibility to go and show them theyre not forgotten. Through Audrey Hepburns life we see that not personal success is what really matters, but the compassion and determination we have to leave our comfort zone and help those in need.

The experiences of the cruelty and consequences of World War II radically changed Audrey Hepburns childhood. Once Germany invaded Holland, she had to survive the notorious Hunger Winter. From early age she had been using her dancing ability in order to help others: she had secretly danced for groups of people to collect money for the Dutch resistance. Never did she forget what liberation felt like or the images of aid arriving to her and thousands like her in Holland.

The end of the war brought hope; however, she could never achieve her dream of being a prima ballerina, as she emerged from the war in a weakened condition. Anyway, she decided not to give up. Hard work, dedication and perseverance were the key to her success. The Broadway play Gigi, which was a smashing success, and the Roman Holiday movie, in which she played Princess Annes role, have catapulted her in the limelight and into the hearts of an adoring public. Audreys career continued ascending; she acquired a massive celebrity status. Up to this day, she has been known as the irrefutable personification of irresistible charm, grace and dignity. Besides that, she decided to speak out for those who have no voice, to reach out for those who have no one to support them, to show compassion towards those who are used to suffering. Though sometimes tentative and unsure when preparing for a role on screen, she was firm and unreserved in fighting for helpless, dying children from the four corners of the world struggling for survival.

In conclusion, with over 25 movies to her credit, there is no doubt that Audrey achieved a rarefied position as beloved actress and icon of style. Yet, Audrey always considered her work as a UNICEF International Goodwill Ambassador her greatest role. And that is the beauty of Audrey's legacy; that is her message to us living in the 21st century: no matter you do with one hand for yourself, make sure youll be remembered for devotedly serving others with your other hand.