Opportunities to find deeper powers within ourselves come when life seems most challenging.

Writer and lecturer Joseph Campbell is best known for his extensive work in the field of comparative mythology and his focus on how the fabled “hero’s journey” is explored across different cultures. At a 1983 seminar at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California, Campbell discussed the significance and influence of myths in our lives. This quote from the seminar reflects his beliefs about personal growth and the capacity for profound transformation when we’re confronted with adversity. He further added, “Negativism to the pain and ferocity of life is negativism to life. We are not there until we can say ‘yea’ to it all.” His words are a reminder that we must acknowledge and come to terms with the full range of human experiences to unlock our full potential.