It has been more than two years since the tragic death of one of the greatest minds in the 21st century, Stephen Hawking. The famed scientist passed away at the age of 76 after battling with ALS for most of his adult life. In spite of his serious illness, Hawking was able to defy the odds and live a long and fulfilling life that saw him break barriers in both the scientific community and in the social community as well.
He was one of the greatest physicists ever to live. And his work is going to go down as some of the most important scientific breakthroughs in history. However, it’s not just in the scientific world wherein Hawking was able to create an impact. He also served as an inspiration to all people – regardless of what race, background, age, gender, or profession they might have.
AN INSPIRING MESSAGE
But for this article, in particular, we are going to turn our attention to some very choice words that Stephen had for people who might be going through some tough and depressing times.
“The message of this lecture is that black holes ain’t as black as they are painted. They are not the eternal prisons they were once thought. Things can get out of a black hole both on the outside and possibly to another universe. So if you feel you are in a black hole, don’t give up – there’s a way out. Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious. And however, difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. It matters that you don’t just give up.”
Hawking is someone who isn’t a stranger to having to overcome substantial hurdles and obstacles in his life. He is someone who has faced adversity. Granted, a lot of people might already be familiar with his story. He was diagnosed with ALS when he was just 21 years’ of age back in 1963. The doctors told him that he would gradually deteriorate and that he would only have two years to live. Well, we all know how history turned out.
BEATING THE ODDS
Hawking didn’t allow this illness to define him. He would later go on to become one of the greatest minds this world has ever seen. He would evolve to become an unstoppable force in the field of science. As a result of his hard work, his name is forever etched into the record books because of his work. However, in spite of his grave illness and his unfortunate physical condition, Hawking still made it a point always to stay humble. After all, he reminded himself of the many things in life that he had to be grateful for.
“Although it was unfortunate to get motor neuron disease, I have been very fortunate in almost everything else… I have been lucky to work in theoretical physics at a fascinating time and it’ s one of the few areas in which my disability was not a severe handicap.”
Hawking also made an essential pint about managing anger and always trying to see the world in a more positive light.
“It’s also important not to become angry, no matter how difficult life may seem because you can lose all hope if you can’t laugh at yourself and life in general.”
