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Argument Quote by George MacDonald

“My spirits rose as I went deeper; into the forest; but I could not regain my former elasticity of mind. I found cheerfulness to be like life itself - not to be created by any argument. Afterwards I learned, that the best way to manage some kinds of pain fill thoughts, is to dare them to do their…” quote by George MacDonald
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“My spirits rose as I went deeper; into the forest; but I could not regain my former elasticity of mind. I found cheerfulness to be like life itself - not to be created by any argument. Afterwards I learned, that the best way to manage some kinds of pain fill thoughts, is to dare them to do their worst; to let them lie and gnaw at your heart till they are tired; and you find you still have a residue of life they cannot kill. So, better and worse, I went on, till I came to a little clearing in the forest.”

George MacDonald

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Lost Princess by George MacDonald, 1875

Enduring hardship by confronting pain directly, allowing it to exhaust itself, reveals an inner resilience that cannot be destroyed.

In simple terms: Facing pain head‑on builds inner strength.

Key Takeaway

Confront suffering to survive.

Themes

resilience pain inner strength

Mood

somber hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • personal growth
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

psychological endurance mindfulness creative coping

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you let pain run its course?
  • What inner resources help you persist?
A Different Perspective

Pain may overwhelm if not managed.

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