Meaning: Thomas Barnardo, a philanthropist and founder of the charity Barnardo's, is the author of this powerful quote. In this statement, Barnardo expresses his unwavering dedication to his work and his willingness to challenge established rules and conventions in pursuit of a better way. The quote encapsulates his relentless commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged children, a cause to which he devoted his entire life.

Barnardo's work was driven by a deep sense of compassion and a strong belief in the potential of every child, regardless of their background or circumstances. Born in Dublin in 1845, he initially trained as a medical doctor before becoming involved in evangelical work in the East End of London. It was here that he encountered the extreme poverty and suffering experienced by many children, which ultimately inspired him to establish his own charitable organization.

Barnardo's approach was innovative and often controversial, as he challenged the prevailing attitudes towards poverty and child welfare. He rejected the notion that disadvantaged children were inherently destined for a life of hardship and instead sought to provide them with the support and opportunities they needed to thrive. His work focused on addressing the root causes of poverty and social inequality, rather than simply providing temporary relief.

Throughout his career, Barnardo remained steadfast in his belief that the needs of the children he served should always come first. This unwavering commitment is reflected in his statement about being willing to discard established rules and methods if he believed there was a better way to achieve his goals. His willingness to challenge the status quo and push boundaries was a defining feature of his approach to philanthropy.

Barnardo's legacy continues to endure through the ongoing work of Barnardo's, the charity he founded in 1866. The organization has evolved to meet the changing needs of children and young people in the UK, providing a wide range of services and support to help them overcome the challenges they face. From fostering and adoption to mental health support and education programs, Barnardo's remains true to its founder's vision of offering a more excellent way to improve the lives of vulnerable children.

In conclusion, Thomas Barnardo's quote encapsulates the essence of his life's work and his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of disadvantaged children. His commitment to challenging established rules and pursuing a more excellent way reflects his innovative and compassionate approach to philanthropy. Through his pioneering efforts and the enduring impact of the charity he established, Barnardo's legacy continues to inspire and guide the ongoing work to support and empower vulnerable children.