Unseen Battles: The Silent Struggles We All Endure

By Desalegn Terecha

"Be kind, for everyone you encounter is waging a battle you know nothing about." This quote, often attributed to Plato, resonates now more than ever. In a world driven by speed and instant reactions, we often miss the subtle signs of someone's internal struggles—the pause before a response, the ignored text, the forced smile. Every silence hides a story. Every distant look conceals a heart searching for calm.

The Burdens We Don’t See

We all carry hidden weights—unseen and immeasurable. These burdens come in the form of emotional turbulence, unspoken fears, and personal narratives kept close to the chest. What looks like indifference or arrogance might actually be someone doing their best just to make it through the day.

That friend who doesn’t reply quickly? They might be emotionally exhausted. That colleague who appears withdrawn during meetings? They could be dealing with challenges at home. That family member who retreats in silence? They might be struggling to articulate their pain. Not every quiet moment is conceit. Not every gap is ego. Sometimes, it’s simply a weary soul trying to catch its breath.

Judgment Is Simple. Empathy Is Transformative.

Our society is quick to draw conclusions. Social media intensifies this tendency. A late response is labeled rude. A canceled plan is seen as indifference. But here’s a truth we often overlook: people are more than their behavior. They are living, evolving stories.

Instead of rushing to judge, pause and lean into compassion. Ask yourself, “What might this person be carrying?” Choose to give grace. Offer understanding instead of assumptions. Often, those who are the most difficult to love are the ones who need love the most.

The Ever-Turning Wheel of Life

Life is fluid. One moment, you’re flourishing; the next, you’re barely holding on. The tides shift—sometimes in your favor, sometimes not. But every twist holds a lesson. When you’re up, appreciate it. Don’t waste the gift. When you’re down, find strength. Don’t curse the moment—listen to its wisdom.

That burned bridge? It might be shielding you. That painful goodbye? It might be guiding you. That frustrating delay? It might be saving you for something better. Always live and learn. It’s the way forward.

Storms Aren’t Forever

There’s a quote that says, “You can’t calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.” Life’s chaos—heartbreak, illness, loss, failure—is often uncontrollable. But within every storm lies a chance to fortify your spirit. You may not stop the storm, but you can anchor yourself. You can pause. You can remind yourself, “This won’t last.”

Let go of the urge to control every outcome. Focus on your response. Choose serenity in the middle of the storm.

Life Is a Journey, Not a Sprint

Life isn’t a straight highway—it’s a path full of twists, turns, detours, and revelations. Each day is a blank page—a new chance to grow, love, and discover. Greet the day with openness. Try something unfamiliar. Stay curious. Be courageous. Remain hopeful. You don’t need all the answers today. You just need to take the next step.

You’re Stronger Than You Realize

Let’s be honest—some days are incredibly tough. And on those days, it’s easy to feel like quitting. But remember this: your strength outshines your struggles. You have the power to rise—again and again. You’ve endured moments you thought would break you. You’ve evolved more than you recognize.

Mistakes? They’re teachers. Failures? Stepping stones. Pain? Evidence that you’re healing. So, give yourself kindness. Forgive your missteps. Celebrate progress—even the small wins.

Kindness Is a Superpower We All Possess

In a world that can often feel harsh, your kindness matters more than titles, likes, or income. Kindness costs nothing—but it’s invaluable. Smile at someone. Reach out to a friend. Give a compliment. Offer help. Speak life into someone who feels defeated. The kindness you offer others often mirrors how you treat yourself.

Be the Reason Someone Feels Seen

Set this intention: let every person you meet feel a little lighter because they encountered you. Not because you solved their problems, but because you truly saw them. Heard them. Honored them. Sometimes, it’s not grand gestures that matter—but the small acts of care. Listening without judging. Loving without strings. Showing up when it’s hardest to do so. Be a safe harbor. Be someone’s reminder that goodness still lives.

In Closing: We’re All Just Figuring It Out

At the end of the day, we’re all trying—trying to heal, to hope, to keep moving. Some of us are rebuilding. Others are simply surviving the week. So, be soft with each other. Let’s trade assumptions for understanding. Let’s take the time to truly see one another—not just with our eyes, but with our hearts.

Because every quiet struggle hides a soul—just like yours—worthy, precious, and still finding their way home.

Written by Desalegn Terecha. All rights reserved.