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So you mustn't be frightened, dear Mr. Kappus, if a sadness rises in front of you, larger than any you have ever seen; if an anxiety - like light and cloud-shadows, moves over your hands and everything you do. You must realize that something is happening to you, that life has not forgotten you, that it holds you in the palm of its hand and will not let you fall.
Rainer Maria Rilke
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reassures that sadness and anxiety are part of the human experience and suggests that they hold deeper significance.

Rainer Maria Rilke's quote emphasizes that facing profound sadness or anxiety is a natural part of life that should not evoke fear. Instead, it encourages an understanding that such feelings indicate active engagement in life's journey, reminding us that we are cared for and supported by the greater forces of existence, thus suggesting a sense of hope and resilience in the face of challenges.

Themes

SadnessAnxietyLifeResilienceHope

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can inspire someone going through a tough time at a support group meeting.

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Quote by Rainer Maria Rilke | QuoteProject