I believe that human beings are born first and given passports later. I'm really thankful for my journey. And it's a journey I didn't design.

The quote "I believe that human beings are born first and given passports later. I'm really thankful for my journey. And it's a journey I didn't design" by Alfonso Cuarón reflects his perspective on life and the unpredictability of the human experience. Cuarón, a renowned filmmaker, is emphasizing that humans are born without a predetermined identity or path—birth comes before everything else, and only later are we assigned roles, identities, and obligations, like a passport that grants us access to the world. This speaks to the idea that we are all born with inherent freedom, and the structures of society come later.

By stating that he's thankful for his journey, Cuarón acknowledges the importance of the experiences and challenges that have shaped him. His journey, like that of everyone else, wasn't something he could have fully anticipated or controlled. He embraces the unknown aspects of life, indicating that growth and fulfillment often come from embracing the unexpected rather than following a rigidly designed plan. The journey is something personal and individual, shaped by events beyond our control, and that spontaneity is often where true richness lies.

The idea of not designing his journey points to the importance of accepting life as it unfolds, and being open to the serendipity and surprises that come with it. Cuarón's words invite people to reflect on their own life paths and consider how much of it was shaped by chance, circumstance, or the choices of others, rather than by their own design. This sentiment resonates with the idea that life's greatest rewards often come when we step off the path we've planned and let experiences shape us.

Ultimately, Cuarón's quote serves as a reminder to be grateful for the unpredictability of life, recognizing that our true identity is formed not by the roles assigned to us, but by the richness of the experiences we encounter along the way.