A Proverb of Hope: ‘It’s Always Darkest Before the Dawn’

The darkest times often herald transformative shifts. Biba Kayewich

In life, we often find ourselves navigating through challenging moments that test our strength and resilience. Yet this simple proverb, whispered through the ages, offers solace and a glimmer of hope: “It’s always darkest before the dawn.”

These days, a lot of things may be getting us down, whether it be politics, the state of the world, family troubles, or health woes. However, what is encouraging about proverbs is that they have stood the test of time, usually for centuries, so they often contain profound truth.

You never know when hope is around the corner. Things can turn on a dime, and humans aren’t ultimately in charge. All we can do is persevere, stay positive, and do what is right. Remembering the proverb “It’s always darkest before the dawn” can help see us through.

In my first piece on proverbs, I talked about proverbs as a sort of dying art. They are one of the golden threads that hold our culture together, containing wisdom passed down through the centuries. By reading about them, incorporating them into our speech, and sharing them with the next generation, we can help preserve a part of our culture.

Where Does It Come From?

Tracing back the exact origins of this proverb is difficult. But the earliest known appearance of a similar concept can be found in the 1650 writings of English churchman and historian Thomas Fuller, who wrote, “It is always darkest just before the day dawneth.”

Over time, the phrase gained popularity and became widely recognized. For example, Ernest Hemingway said, “Night is always darker before the dawn and life is the same, the hard times will pass, everything will get better and sun will shine brighter than ever.”

And, most comfortingly, it is a concept, and saying, that appears in other languages too. W.S. Walsh’s 1892 “Handy-Book of Literary Curiosities” provides these examples:

• “By dint of going wrong all will come right” (French)
• “Ill is the eve of well” (Italian)
• “It is at the narrowest part of the defile that the valley begins to open” (Persian)

The darkest times often herald transformative shifts. Biba Kayewich

Reflecting on the Past

Time and again, the world has indeed witnessed the power of resilience and hope. From the depths of wars and conflicts to periods of social upheaval, the darkest moments often heralded transformative shifts. Think of the sudden fall of communism across Europe in 1989, for example.

The courage of individuals and collective movements brought about positive change, shining a light on the path toward a brighter future. “It’s always darkest before the dawn” reminds us to look back at history, acknowledging the commitment and strength of those who carried us through.

Applying the Wisdom to Our Attitudes in Life

On a personal level, although we can’t always control the circumstances we face, we can control our responses to them. This proverb reminds us to adopt a mindset of optimism and hope. It reminds us that setbacks are not permanent and that within the darkness lies the potential for personal growth and transformation.

1. Cultivating Patience and Perseverance

When faced with difficulties, many yearn for a quick resolution. Yet this proverb invites us to embrace patience and understand that a journey through darkness is temporary. By persevering with resilience and determination and knowing that a brighter dawn is coming, we will gain perspective, which we can then apply to future challenges.

2. Seeking Lessons in Adversity

Adversity carries valuable lessons, teaching us strength and adaptability. Embracing the proverb means recognizing that even during tough times, there are opportunities for growth. By reframing challenges as opportunities for personal development, we can come out stronger.

3. Embracing Hope and Positivity

By nurturing a positive mindset and surrounding ourselves with supportive people, we can foster resilience and find solace in the belief that brighter days will come. A positive attitude allows us to endure the trials of life while minimizing any negative effects on the mind and body that these can bring.

From time to time, we all encounter periods of darkness that try the spirit. Yet the proverb “It’s always darkest before the dawn” assures us that even when things are at their worst, hope truly will prevail. We are not on this journey alone, and our hearts, minds, and actions are being observed. So let us keep hope alive.

I leave you with a quote by Winston Churchill, from 1941:

“Do not let us speak of darker days; let us rather speak of sterner days. These are not dark days; these are great days—the greatest days our country has ever lived; and we must all thank God that we have been allowed, each of us according to our stations, to play a part in making these days memorable in the history of our race.”

Epoch Times readers, Epoch Times supporters, my hat goes off to you. You are all a part of making history. These dark days will not last, for “it’s always darkest before the dawn.”