This quote suggests that no one can sustain their sorrows or griefs at their peak intensity; they naturally diminish over time. This is because grief, like many emotions, has a self-consuming quality. When we experience grief, it feels all-consuming and insurmountable. However, as time passes, the intensity of this emotion gradually lessens. This does not mean that the grief disappears entirely, but it becomes more manageable, less sharp. It’s as if grief uses up its own energy over time, like a fire that eventually burns out when there’s no more fuel to sustain it.

This idea resonates deeply in today’s world, particularly in the context of mental health and personal development. In times of deep sorrow or loss, it can sometimes feel as though the pain is endless. However, understanding that grief is self-consuming can offer a form of solace, a light at the end of the tunnel. It reminds us that it’s okay to feel intense emotions, and it’s also okay to let them fade naturally over time.

In terms of personal development, this concept encourages resilience and patience. It teaches us to endure and to trust the natural process of emotional healing. It also highlights the importance of self-care during periods of grief, as forcing oneself to ‘move on’ prematurely can disrupt this natural process and potentially lead to more harm than good. The knowledge that grief uses itself up can provide the strength to face each day, knowing that with each passing moment, we are moving towards healing.