Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology, deceived the gods and was condemned to the endless chore of pushing a boulder up a hill. Each time he neared the top, the boulder rolled back downhill.
Philosopher Albert Camus interpreted this myth as a metaphor for the human struggle to find meaning in an often absurd, purposeless world. Camus suggested that, despite the inane hardship of his situation, Sisyphus could find purpose and even happiness in his task. In his words: “The struggle itself towards the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy.”
In the face of inevitable suffering, or apparent meaninglessness, you can choose to carry enthusiasm to what you don’t want to do. Sometimes your purpose lives in that wobbly space between what you can sense but can’t fully articulate. Difficult things can create meaning.
When you’re in despair, hopeless, or suffering, remember: The struggle alone is enough to fill your heart.
“The struggle itself towards the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy.”
~Albert Camus, The Myth of Sisyphus (Essay)
“Day by day I am approaching the goal which I apprehend but cannot describe.”
~Ludwig van Beethoven, who, even after going deaf, kept pushing his boulder of music uphill anyway.
