Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology, deceived the gods and was condemned to the endless chore of pushing a boulder up a hill. Each time he neared the top, the boulder rolled back downhill.
Albert Camus interpreted this myth as a metaphor for the human struggle to find meaning in an often absurd, purposeless world. Camus suggested that, despite the inane hardship of his situation, Sisyphus could find purpose and even happiness in his task.
In the face of inevitable suffering, or apparent meaningless, you can choose to carry enthusiasm to what you don’t want to do. Difficult things can create meaning in our lives. We must imagine Sisyphus happy.
When you’re in despair, hopeless, or suffering, remember: The struggle alone is enough to fill your heart.
“The struggle itself towards the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy.”
~Albert Camus, The Myth of Sisyphus (Essay)