"経験は私たちに、世界は保育園ではないことを教えてくれます。"

Life has a way of toughening us up. The essence of this quote is that the world doesn’t coddle us like a loving parent might. Rather, it throws challenges our way, forcing us to grow and adapt. We can’t expect to be protected from hardships; they’re part and parcel of our journey. This idea has been echoed throughout history, especially during times of great upheaval, like wars or economic depressions, when people had no choice but to toughen up and face reality head-on.

Think back to the Great Depression in the 1930s. Times were incredibly tough. Jobs were scarce, families struggled to put food on the table, and many lost their homes. There wasn’t much room for sheltering individuals from the harsh realities of life. People had to learn quickly to survive in a world that seemed indifferent to their suffering. They picked up skills, worked multiple jobs, and did whatever was necessary to make it through each day. This wasn’t a world where anyone could afford to be coddled. It was a world that required resilience and resourcefulness.

Let’s consider a modern, real-life example to bring this concept to life. Think about someone who starts their own business. At first, the idea seems thrilling—being your own boss, setting your own hours. But soon enough, reality sets in. There are bills to pay, clients to find, and problems to solve, often with limited resources. There are moments of doubt, setbacks that seem insurmountable, and times when it feels easier to just give up. But if you talk to any successful entrepreneur, they’ll tell you that these tough moments were their greatest teachers. They learned to adapt, to pivot, and to keep pushing forward, even when it felt impossible. The world didn’t give them a break; it threw challenges at them, and through those challenges, they grew.

So how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? First, embrace challenges. Don’t shy away from difficult situations or wish for an easier path. These experiences are shaping you, building your resilience and strength. Next, adopt a growth mindset. Instead of seeing obstacles as insurmountable, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Finally, practice gratitude for the tough times. They’re not pleasant, but they’re crucial for your development.

Now, imagine a young woman named Sarah. She’s just graduated from college and landed her first job in a big city. Everything seems exciting at first, but soon, she’s overwhelmed with the reality of adulthood—managing bills, dealing with a demanding boss, and navigating the complexities of city life. At times, Sarah wishes she could go back to the simpler days of college. But gradually, she learns to stand on her own two feet. She finds joy in small victories, like figuring out her budget or successfully completing a challenging project at work. Sarah’s journey isn’t easy, but it’s hers, and it’s making her stronger every day.

In the end, it’s clear: the world isn’t here to pamper us. It’s here to challenge us, to push us, and to help us grow. Embrace the journey, with all its bumps and bruises. They’re proof that you’re living, learning, and becoming the person you’re meant to be.