"به هر حال، من از تغییر خودم سر باز می‌زنم. شیر باید غذا بخورد. همراهم باش یا فرار کن."

This quote boils down to staying true to yourself and your nature, no matter what others think or do. It’s about knowing who you are and not compromising on that. Imagine a lion in the wild. It's got to hunt to survive. A lioness isn’t going to become a vegetarian because the gazelles don’t like her eating habits. She's a predator by nature. Similarly, the speaker is asserting their identity and their right to be themselves, unapologetically. They’re saying, "This is who I am, take it or leave it."

This kind of mindset might come up in various situations. Perhaps someone is facing pressure to conform to societal norms, peer expectations, or workplace demands that clash with their true essence. It’s like the classic struggle of artists throughout history who refuse to change their unique styles even when faced with criticism or lack of immediate success. Think of Vincent van Gogh. He painted in his own vibrant, emotional style despite the fact that his work wasn’t appreciated during his lifetime.

Take a modern-day example: Think of a tech entrepreneur who has a revolutionary idea that nobody believes in. Let’s call her Sarah. Sarah knows her idea can change the world, but potential investors and even friends tell her it’s too risky, too unconventional. They want her to tweak it, to make it more like what's already out there. But Sarah stands her ground. She believes in her vision and refuses to water it down. She’s like the lion in the quote – she has to do what she believes in because that’s her nature, her drive. Eventually, after years of hard work and countless rejections, Sarah's idea transforms the industry and becomes a massive success.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, get to know yourself. Really dig deep. What are your core values, your passions? What makes you tick? Once you understand that, hold onto it tight. Don’t let external pressures dilute who you are. Surround yourself with people who appreciate you for your true self, not for a version of you that fits their mold. And remember, sometimes it’s better to walk alone than with a crowd that’s leading you in the wrong direction.

Imagine you're at a crossroads in your career. You’re offered a job that’s prestigious and well-paying but doesn’t align with your values or interests. On the other hand, there’s a less secure path that’s much closer to your heart. It’s like standing in front of two roads – one is well-trodden, the other is risky and uncertain. Your inner lion knows where it wants to go. It knows it has to eat, metaphorically speaking, by following its true passion. So you take the leap, despite the doubts and the naysayers. It’s not easy, and there are tough days, but you feel alive, fulfilled. You’re being true to yourself, and that’s what matters.

Ultimately, the quote is a powerful reminder that authenticity is non-negotiable. Sure, it’s risky. Yes, it might be lonely at times. But in the end, staying true to who you are is the only way to truly thrive. So, run with your inner lion. Or run from it. But never try to cage it.