"ما نسعى إليه هو نوع من التعويض عما تحملناه."

We all want something in return for what we endure in life. That's the heart of it. It’s a sentiment as old as time itself. People have always looked for a balance—a kind of cosmic fairness. You put in the effort, deal with the hardships, you expect some reward. That’s human nature.

Historically, this idea has been around forever. Think about the ancient Greeks. They had this whole concept of "hubris" and "nemesis." If you suffered or worked hard, you expected the gods to reward you in some way—or at least not punish you. This idea can also be seen in many religious teachings. It's all about actions leading to consequences, ideally positive ones if you’ve put in the good work.

Now, let’s paint a picture. Imagine Sarah, a young professional working tirelessly at her job. She puts in extra hours, helps her colleagues, and even skips her vacations, thinking it’ll pay off. And guess what? After years of dedication, she finally gets that big promotion. That’s her compensation, the reward for the sacrifices she made. It’s tangible proof that her struggles weren’t in vain.

For you and me, applying this wisdom is pretty straightforward. When we’re grinding away, dealing with tough situations, or making sacrifices, it’s okay to expect something in return. Whether it’s a promotion, a thank you, or even just personal growth, seeking compensation helps us push through. It keeps us motivated. But here's the catch—sometimes the reward isn’t immediate or clear. So, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the bigger picture and trust that your efforts will pay off, even if it’s not in the way you initially expected.

Think about a time when you had to put up with something tough. Maybe you were preparing for a marathon, and those early morning runs were brutal. Or perhaps you were studying for a big exam, sacrificing sleep and social time. What did you get in return? Maybe it was crossing that finish line or acing the test. That’s your compensation—it validates all you went through.

Picture this: John, a single dad, working two jobs to provide for his kids. He’s exhausted, missing out on social life, and barely has time for himself. But he keeps at it because he knows his kids are getting a better future. They’re his compensation—their smiles, their successes. It’s what makes all his sacrifices worth it.

So, next time you find yourself in a tough spot, think about what you’re working towards. Is it a promotion? A personal achievement? The happiness of someone you love? Keep that end goal in mind. It’s okay to expect a reward for your efforts. It’s what keeps us human, pushing forward despite the challenges.

In the end, remember this: life’s a give and take. What we endure often shapes what we gain. So, hang in there—your compensation, big or small, is on its way.