15.
But when set in the very midst of troubles one should say: Perchance some day the memory of this sorrow Will even bring delight.
Let such a man fight against them with all his might: if he once gives way, he will be vanquished; but if he strives against his sufferings, he will conquer.
As it is, however, what most men do is to drag down upon their own heads a falling ruin which they ought to try to support.
If you begin to withdraw your support from that which thrusts toward you and totters and is ready to plunge, it will follow you and lean more heavily upon you; but if you hold your ground and make up your mind to push against it, it will be forced back.
Book: Moral Letters Vol II
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the healing power of the mind
Location: Chapter 78, Section 15
Content:
15.
But when set in the very midst of troubles one should say: Perchance some day the memory of this sorrow Will even bring delight.
Let such a man fight against them with all his might: if he once gives way, he will be vanquished; but if he strives against his sufferings, he will conquer.
As it is, however, what most men do is to drag down upon their own heads a falling ruin which they ought to try to support.
If you begin to withdraw your support from that which thrusts toward you and totters and is ready to plunge, it will follow you and lean more heavily upon you; but if you hold your ground and make up your mind to push against it, it will be forced back.