Stephen Hawking, known for his astrophysical brilliance, had some inspiring words to say to people who are suffering from depression. His entire life has revolved around the theory of general relativity , quantum physics, and of course, trying to solving the mystery of black hole – his favorite subject.
The author of the best-selling book A Brief History of Time had some reassuring words for people suffering from depression in a recent speech he gave in London. He made a poetic comparison between depression and black holes – no matter how dark they seem, neither are impossible to escape.
Hawking said: “The message of this lecture is that black holes ain’t as black as they are painted. They are not the eternal prisons they were once thought. Things can get out of a black hole both on the outside and possibly to another universe. So if you feel you are in a black hole, don’t give up – there’s a way out.”
Hawking was diagnosed with motor neurone disease at the age of 21 and was told by the doctors he had two years to live. He celebrated his 74th birthday on Jan 8. His contribution to science has been truly and literally astronomical. Despite living with a debilitating disease for 53 years which left him completely paralysed, he continued to produce extraordinary work which advanced mankind and inspired so many.
When suffering from depression or any other mental illness, no matter how bleak the situation looks, there is always a way out. Never give up. Never lose hope. Hawking’s whole life is testament of a person who never gave up hope despite overwhelming odds. So when you’re having a particularly rough day dealing with depression, remember Hawking’s inspiring words and say to yourself ‘This too shall pass.’
H/T: IFL SCIENCE
