"Cela aussi passera"

At its heart, the saying “this, too, will pass” is a reminder that everything in life is temporary. Whether you’re going through a rough patch or enjoying a moment of pure bliss, it’s all fleeting. This can be both comforting and humbling. It’s comforting to know that hard times won’t last forever, and humbling to remember that good times are also transient.

The origins of this phrase are a bit murky, but it’s often attributed to ancient Persian poets and also appears in Jewish folklore. There’s a well-known story about a king who asked his wise men to come up with a phrase that would be true in both good times and bad. After much deliberation, they presented him with this simple yet profound statement: “This, too, will pass.”

Let me give you a real-life example. Imagine you’re stuck in a job that you hate. Every day feels like a drag, your boss is on your case, and you can’t see a way out. It’s easy to feel like this situation is your forever reality. But then, you remember, “this, too, will pass.” It might take some time and effort—updating your resume, applying for new positions, maybe even gaining new skills—but eventually, you will move on to something better. This phrase helps you keep the end in sight, giving you the strength to push through those dark days.

Now, how do you actually apply this wisdom in your life? Start by acknowledging your current situation—whether it's good or bad. If you’re going through tough times, remind yourself that it’s not permanent. Tell yourself it’s a chapter, not the whole story. On the flip side, if you’re on cloud nine, savor it, but don’t get too attached. Life is full of ups and downs, and clinging to one emotional state can set you up for disappointment.

Here’s a little story to illustrate the point: Think about a high school student named Sarah. She’s a senior, and the pressure is on. She’s got college applications, final exams, and a part-time job. It’s all piling up, and she feels like she’s drowning. But Sarah’s mom has this saying she always repeats: “This, too, will pass.” Whenever Sarah feels overwhelmed, she remembers her mom’s words. She takes a deep breath, tackles one task at a time, and before she knows it, she’s graduating and heading off to college. All those stressful days are now just a memory, and she’s onto a new adventure.

This concept is like having a mental toolbox. When things get tough, you pull out this tool and remind yourself that the situation is temporary. It helps you keep your cool, stay grounded, and push through. And on the flip side, when things are going great, it’s a gentle nudge to appreciate the moment without becoming complacent.

So next time you’re caught in a whirlwind of emotions, good or bad, take a moment to breathe and remember: this, too, will pass. It’s a simple phrase, but it can provide a surprising amount of clarity and peace. We’re all just passing through different seasons of life, and recognizing this can help us navigate the highs and lows with a bit more grace and perspective.