You learn things in adversity that you would never have discovered without trouble. There is always a seed of hope.
Search for the seed of good in every adversity. Master that principle and you will own a precious shield that will guard you well through all the darkest valleys you must traverse. Stars may be seen from the bottom of a deep well, when they cannot be discerned from the mountaintop. So will you learn things in adversity that you would never have discovered without trouble. There is always a seed of good. Find it and prosper.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Adversity can reveal hidden strengths and lessons; seek the positives in difficult times.
The quote emphasizes the importance of finding the positives in challenging situations. It suggests that within every adversity lies a valuable lesson or insight, which can serve as a protective shield during difficult times. Just as stars can be seen more clearly from the depths of a well than from a mountaintop, struggles often provide unique perspectives and opportunities for personal growth that wouldn't be apparent otherwise. The core message is to actively look for the 'seed of good' in every hardship, as doing so can lead to prosperity and resilience.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech emphasizing resilience in tough times.
More from Og Mandino
All quotes βWhy do we continue to breed little minds who can find no recompense for their own failures other than to belittle and mock the talents, even the dress, of others? When will everyone realize that we are all equal in the eyes of God?
The only certain means of success is to render more and better service than is expected of you, no matter what the task may be. This is a habit followed by all successful people since the beginning of time. Therefore I saith the surest way to doom yourself to mediocrity is to perform only the work for which you are paid.
Only God can shape a flower, but any foolish child can pull it to pieces.
Each day is a special gift from God, and while life may not always be fair, you must never allow the pains, hurdles, and handicaps of the moment to poison your attitude and plans for yourself and your future.
Obstacles are necessary for success because in selling, as in all careers of importance, victory comes only after many struggles and countless defeats. Yet each struggle, each defeat, sharpens your skills and strengths, your courage and your endurance, your ability and your confidence and thus each obstacle is a comrade-in-arms forcing you to become better... or quit. Each rebuff is an opportunity to move forward; turn away from them, avoid them, and you throw away your future.
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