Words are what worlds revolve around. Music and visual art are both great fun for me but nothing comforts me quite like words. It’s neat how you can encapsulate common feelings and experiences into a 26-bit alphabet.
The sayings about “this too shall pass” or “nothing is forever” or whatever that hints at how ephemeral emotions and situations are, does nothing to comfort me. A more comforting saying, in my opinion, is “the more things change, the more they stay the same.” Change doesn’t always work out - sometimes you revert, sometimes that reversion is a good thing. And sometimes the change is something you never thought would happen but was much needed and wanted.
I also have a new favorite in “either things grow and change or they die” (Kim Edwards). Trees dying is part of the growth.
Happiness and sadness are both temporary but I don’t believe contentedness is out of the question as a stable feeling. This is the motivation behind why I disagree with “This too shall pass” as a motivational quote. Not to mention, bad things can happen a lot at once. And I don’t know a single person who would say, “Ah, yes, I would like this happy moment to pass.” Sometimes what you consider to be a content moment changes. As people age, the more small things are appreciated.
Another quote that is similar to both of the keystone ones above is, “Your mind is a galaxy. More dark than light. But the light makes it worthwhile…Even when the darkness is total. Always know that life is not still. Time is space. You are moving through that galaxy. Wait for the stars” (Matt Haig). The imagery of this appeals greatly to me. While it relates to “this too shall pass,” it puts more emphasis on how great the light parts are and how comforting sometimes the dark parts are when you’re moving through time and space. Also, stars and space are just cool hence my love for the quote.
What sayings bring you deep comfort? Please reply to the email if you’re a subscriber or comment if you’re a paid subscriber. We’d love to hear your thoughts.