"When I was in first grade, everyone made fun of my name, of course. I think it's kind of a big name to hold up when you're nine years old. It seemed goofy. I used to tell people I wanted to change the world and they used to think, 'This kid's really weird'"

This quote by River Phoenix speaks with the struggles of being a child and having a distinct name. It is clear that he experienced teasing and ridicule from his peers due to his name, which he felt was too big for him to bring at such a young age. He was also seen as strange for his aspiration to change the world, which was likely seen as an unrealistic goal for a 9 years of age. This quote talks to the value of understanding and acceptance, along with the power of ambition and resilience. It is a suggestion that we must not judge others based on their age, name, or goals, however instead make every effort to create an environment of acceptance and understanding.