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About this quote

What does it mean?
When outcomes are certain or beyond control, worry becomes pointless and unnecessary.
In plain terms
If nothing can be done, there is no point in stressing about it.
What can you take from it?
Release worry when the situation is truly hopeless.

Where it applies

  • terminal illness
  • disaster response
  • personal failure

Putting it to work

  • accept reality
  • focus on what you can control
  • let go

Questions to consider

  • When have you stopped worrying?
  • What defines hopelessness for you?

Another view

Worry can sometimes drive preparation even in dire situations.

More from Edward Abbey

  1. What's the difference between a whore and a congressman? A congressman makes more money.

    Permalink to quote #46

  2. Sentiment without action is the ruin of the soul.

    Permalink to quote #48

  3. Counterpart to the knee-jerk liberal is the new knee-pad conservative, always groveling before the rich and powerful.

    Permalink to quote #45

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