Common Quote by Samuel Johnson
“It is natural for every man uninstructed to murmur at his condition, because, in the general infelicity of life, he feels his own miseries without knowing that they are common to all the rest of the species; and, therefore, though he will not be less sensible of pain by being told that others are equally tormented, he will at least be freed from the temptation of seeking, by perpetual changes, that ease which is no where to be found, and though his diseases still continue, he escapes the hazard of exasperating it by remedies.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1759
People often complain about their personal hardships without realizing suffering is universal, and this awareness can reduce the urge to seek false remedies.
In simple terms: Recognize that everyone suffers; it eases personal distress.
Key Takeaway
Accept common suffering.
Themes
human nature
philosophy
empathy
psychology
comfort
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- daily life
- mental health
- social interactions
- grief counseling
Key Concepts
Universal suffering
misery awareness
self‑compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- What common hardships do you share with others?
- How does recognizing universality change your response?
A Different Perspective
May not help those needing concrete solutions.
![“Neither Italian fascism nor German national "socialism" have anything in common with such a [Soviet socialistic] society, primarily because private ownership of factories, plants, lands, banks, means of transportation, etc., remain untouched there, and, therefore, capitalism in Germany and Italy…” quote by Joseph Stalin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/411/joseph-stalin-1734_capitalism_neither-italian-fascism-nor-german-natio_1430.jpg)
