Lloyd Alexander Quote

Long ago I yearned to be a hero without knowing, in truth, what a hero was. Now, perhaps, I understand it a little better. A grower of turnips or a shaper of clay, a Commot farmer or a king — every man is a hero if he strives more for others than for himself alone. Once, he added, you told me that the seeking counts more than the finding. So, too, must the striving count more than the gain.
Once, I hoped for a glorious destiny, Taran went on, smiling at his own memory. That dream has vanished with my childhood; and though a pleasant dream it was fit only for a child. I am well content as an Assistant Pig-Keeper.

Chapter 21 - The Chronicles of Prydain (1964–1968) - Book V : The High King (1968)