The phrase “This too shall pass” carries with it a gentle but powerful promise: no pain is forever, no darkness lasts endlessly. It whispers hope to the weary heart, reminding us that every trial—no matter how crushing—will one day fade. But when we add, “It might pass like a kidney stone, but it will pass,” the truth becomes even more relatable. Yes, the hardship may hurt. It might be slow, messy, or agonizing—but it will end.
This saying captures life’s impermanence—its triumphs and its tragedies alike. It assures us that even our most overwhelming struggles are temporary. Just as moments of joy eventually pass, so too will seasons of sorrow.
There is strength in understanding this. We learn to endure with patience, knowing that the night will not last forever. The suffering may feel unbearable, yet hope lies in the promise that the burden will eventually lift.
More than a comforting thought, this quote invites action. It doesn’t ask us to passively wait for life to change. Like the painful process of healing a wound or passing a kidney stone, growth requires effort—whether through reaching out for help, practicing self-care, or simply taking the next small step forward.
The quote’s wisdom stretches far beyond personal pain. History has seen generations endure wars, disasters, and pandemics. Each time, humanity found a way to survive—and eventually to rebuild. “This too shall pass” became a silent anthem for endurance, courage, and renewal.
Its origins, though debated, are said to trace back to ancient Persia—engraved on the ring of a great king as a reminder in both joy and grief. Others find its roots in Sufi teachings, which encourage letting go of attachment and embracing the fleeting nature of this world.
Whether whispered by a philosopher, written in sacred texts, or spoken by a friend, these simple words transcend time and culture. During the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, the quote resurfaced in the hearts of millions. It reminded us that even the heaviest grief eventually lightens. Even global darkness is not forever.
Artists, poets, and spiritual leaders continue to draw from its truth. The phrase lives on—not just in books or speeches—but in the quiet strength of those who endure.
At its core, “This too shall pass” is not just about getting through hard times. It’s a call to hold on, to breathe, and to believe that life moves forward. That healing, though slow, always comes. And that beyond the storm, light patiently waits.
Selected Inspirational Quotes to Reflect Upon:
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“This too shall pass away.” – Persian Proverb
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“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“The highest courage is to dare to be yourself in the face of adversity.” – Golda Meir
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“Keep your thoughts positive because your thoughts become your words.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Let me know if you’d like a shorter version for social media or a version translated into Vietnamese.