Mother Teresa Quotes to Live By: Inspiring Words on Love, Kindness & Faith

Mary Teresa Bojaxhiu, or most commonly recognized as Mother Teresa, was and will continue to be an inspiration and an icon of selflessness to millions of people, for her lifelong commitment to giving “wholehearted free service to the poorest of the poor.” She always placed common humanity over any religious divisions.

Her selfless actions and humble character made her a global symbol of charitable work, and the love and kindness she bestowed upon the poverty-stricken individuals of all faiths gained her a Nobel Peace Prize in the year 1979.

Though some of her views were deemed controversial by some people, no one can deny the influence and power of her words and actions. In 2016, Mother Teresa was canonized by the Roman Catholic Church as Saint Teresa of Calcutta.

Here are the top quotes and sayings by Mother Teresa that will surely inspire you to appreciate life and find beauty all around you.

Fun fact: Mother Teresa carried a little notebook where she jotted down inspirational thoughts and prayers.

Famous Mother Teresa Quotes

These are the most widely recognized and beloved words from Mother Teresa, encapsulating her life’s message in simple, profound statements.

Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.
(Widely attributed to Mother Teresa, often cited in speeches and interviews.)

Why it matters: This line reminds us that even the smallest act of kindness can brighten someone’s day—a philosophy central to her mission.

Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.
(Quoted in her Nobel Peace Prize lecture, 1979.)

Why it matters: It encourages everyone to contribute, no matter how small, emphasizing the power of intention and love.

If you judge people, you have no time to love them.
(From her book, “A Gift for God.”)

Why it matters: A call to compassion and understanding, this quote is as relevant today as ever.

Mother Teresa Quotes on Love

Mother Teresa believed love was at the heart of every meaningful action.

The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread.
(From her speeches and writings.)

Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do, but how much love we put in that action.
(From her Nobel lecture.)

Reflection: These words invite us to prioritize love in all our relationships, starting with those closest to us.

Mother Teresa Quotes on Compassion & Service

Serving others was Mother Teresa’s life’s work. These quotes reflect her approach to selfless service.

It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.
(Quoted in her Nobel Peace Prize address.)

The most terrible poverty is loneliness, and the feeling of being unloved.
(From her writings.)

Reflection: She teaches that true service means giving with heart and seeing the dignity in every person.

Mother Teresa Quotes on Faith & Prayer

Faith was the foundation of Mother Teresa’s mission.

I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world.
(From interviews and books.)

God does not require that we be successful, only that we be faithful.
(From “A Gift for God.”)

Reflection: Her simple but deep faith empowered her to persist through hardship and inspire others.

Mother Teresa Quotes on Peace

Peace, for Mother Teresa, started with each individual.

If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.
(From speeches and interviews.)

Peace begins with a smile.
(Frequently cited in her talks.)

Reflection: She reminds us that peace starts with daily acts of kindness.

Mother Teresa Quotes on Charity & Humility

Charity and humility were pillars of her philosophy.

Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.
(From her book “A Gift for God.”)

We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.
(Often attributed to her speeches.)

Reflection: No act of charity is too small. Humility amplifies every good deed.

Mother Teresa Quotes on Forgiveness

Forgiveness was essential to Mother Teresa’s outlook on life.

People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
(From “The Paradoxical Commandments” – although often associated with her, this was written by Kent M. Keith and later posted in her home.)

Reflection: Even if not originally her words, this quote’s prominence in her life demonstrates her commitment to radical forgiveness.

Mother Teresa Quotes on Leadership

Her approach to leadership was about empowering others through humility and love.

Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.
(From her interviews and speeches.)

Reflection: She saw every individual as a leader in acts of kindness.

Let Mother Teresa’s Words Move You to Action

Mother Teresa’s words continue to inspire, challenge, and comfort millions around the globe. Whether you’re seeking hope, encouragement, or a call to action, her authentic voice reminds us that love, service, and humility are powerful forces for change. Let these quotes guide you toward a life of deeper meaning and kindness.