“One should opt for what is difficult. It is good to be alone, because solitude is difficult. It is also good to love, because love is difficult. – Rainer Maria Rilke (Germany, 1975 – 1926)
The poet believes challenge and danger bring out the best in us, even though it may be easier to surrender and avoid conflict. To retain our balance in life amid all sorts of contrary influences is a continuing struggle. To maintain our character in the face of regular onslaughts is something near impossible. Still, to grow and flourish without some degree of discomfort is simply not the way nature intended us to live.
By Tobias Louw
