I do not pray for a lighter load, but for a stronger back.
Phillips Brooks
MEANING OF THIS QUOTE
Adversity is part and parcel of life. Expecting life to be a bed of roses is not just wishful thinking, but it can also make the journey more difficult than it needs to be. In some cases, such unrealistic expectations can even lead to people giving up on their dreams altogether. As such, instead of expecting or asking for an easier route, one should seek the ability to navigate such tricky terrains.
ISN’T EXPECTING ROADBLOCKS A NEGATIVE APPROACH TO LIFE?
Negative, no. Pragmatic, yes. As mentioned above, hardships are both an inevitable and essential part of life. They are not necessarily meant to hamper our growth, but to serve as lessons for us to become better versions of our previous selves. Being prepared for the trials and tribulations of life not only helps soften the blow, but it also goes a long way in keeping us on track. Problems will come up whether or not you are ready for them. However, anticipating them makes them that much easier to deal with. This approach is, therefore, more about pragmatism than pessimism.
CONCLUSION
Ironically, expecting life to be smooth sailing only makes the journey ahead more arduous. Religious folks, or people who believe in the existence of some divine entity, are often guilty of praying for the wrong things. Ideally, they should ask for the strength to deal with whatever life throws at them. Even irreligious people can work on their mental fortitude to overcome every problem that they run into along the way.
Phillips Brooks was an American clergyman and author. Known for his quotes on the importance of prayer and the role God plays in our lives, Phillips Brooks once wrote: “I do not pray for a lighter load, but for a stronger back.”