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Question

What does the following quotation mean to you? "Every work has got to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding. Those that persevere will see the light, sooner or later." —Swami Vivekananda

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2021 (Prelims) CSAT Previous Year Paper (10-Oct-2021)

Swami Vivekananda’s powerful words resonate deeply with the essence of resilience and unwavering commitment. To me, this quotation means that success is rarely a linear path; it's almost always a journey fraught with obstacles, setbacks, and moments of doubt. The "hundreds of difficulties" are not aberrations but intrinsic parts of any significant endeavor, whether in personal life, public service, or nation-building. Vivekananda emphasizes that these challenges are tests, designed to filter out the faint-hearted. The true key to achieving one's goals, to "see the light" of success, lies not in avoiding difficulties, but in the steadfast quality of perseverance—the courage to continue despite failures, the patience to endure hardships, and the unyielding faith in one's purpose. It’s a profound affirmation that tenacity is the ultimate differentiator between those who merely dream and those who eventually achieve, highlighting the transformative power of sustained effort and inner strength.

Answered By:

Sakshi Negi

Sakshi Negi is a Delhi-based journalist and content specialist with expertise in educational content and digital media, focusing particularly on government exam preparation and career guidance. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from NRAI School of Mass Communication and her background as a Kendriya Vidyalaya alumna, she brings unique insights into the Indian education system and government sector opportunities.

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