Many people repeat and utilize common sayings or proverbs passed down for generations because they’re believed to be based on experiences and are true. Recently, I ran across one such expression, “What does not kill you makes you stronger.” People may be familiar with the saying but not its origin.

Who would make such a claim except for someone who dares to test their own resolve to rise above the throes of pain and suffering?  

‘What does not kill you makes you stronger’ is the English translation of a German adage, proverb, or aphorism. An aphorism is a scientific or general truth, belief, or wise saying. Like proverbs, aphorisms can be statements of wisdom.

This aphorism is a positive principle that challenges people to believe that one can find and achieve strength even under the gun of hardship or affliction. No one says this is easy.

Nietzsche, also a poet, suffered severe health problems most of his life. ‘What does not kill you makes you stronger’ may have been one of his mantras. We may not have control over the problem, but we can choose how we respond or deal with the situation.

In his autobiography, Nietzsche says some people turn misfortunes or unfortunate accidents into advantages and become stronger.

In today’s words, we might say they take the sour lemons that would make others cry a river and make lemonade. Turning a negative into a positive is a great triumph of endurance and strength. Whatever the challenge or crisis, there are opportunities to adapt, change, and reinvest in oneself.

But not everyone responds to suffering in this manner, and they may not see suffering as an opportunity to become stronger.

Renewed strength and investment require focus and perseverance. This type of focus and determination isn’t impossible based on Romans 8:37 (KJV), “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”

Acknowledging that things could be worse, being more grateful for today, and focusing only on the positives are several ways to start rebuilding one’s strength amid a personal crisis.

“What does not kill you makes you stronger speaks to physical, spiritual, mental, and other forms of human resilience.

People can be fortunate despite their misfortunes. Many people refuse to be defined by handicaps and what they don’t have. A glass-half-full mentality instead of empty can turn a negative into a positive.

Telling someone what doesn’t kill you will make you stronger is an acclamation of resilience.

Talk about turning negatives into positives; watch the Shriners Hospital commercials on television. Those kids survived health challenges and are not throwing in the towel in self-pity but rising to another level of strength and resilience.

I’ve used the aphorism, ‘What does not kill you makes you stronger,’ and believe it to be true for those who seek strength through faith and determination.

Rediscovering oneself and finding meaning in a tragedy or crisis is a journey of increased strength and renewal.

Be well and safe.