You may have heard about the brilliant physicist that was Stephen Hawking. He is considered one of the greatest minds of our time and has inspired so many people during his lifetime.
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His story is absolutely unique, uplifting and full of hope. At the age of 21, he started developing symptoms of ASL (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and doctors gave him only two to three years to live. He passed away in March 2018 at 76 years and lived to be one of the most acknowledged scientists humanity has seen.
Although the disease crippled his body, he kept his mind intact – brilliant and not overwhelmed with negativity. He had no expectations for life, yet he continued to live with grace, passion and dedication for his work, and most of all, with HOPE. His wisdom is unsurpassed and his life story exceeds even his own rich and powerful imagination.
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Bound to a wheelchair, he could not speak nor move. However, he remained grateful for what life has given him and teaches us all an important lesson (among the many physics lessons). In one of his lectures, he addressed depression, a topic that mattered to him personally. For him, depression is similar to black holes.
Here is what he said about this mental illness and how he encouraged people to overcome it:
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. Never give up work. Work gives you meaning and purpose and life is empty without it. If you are lucky enough to find love, remember it is there and don’t throw it away.
As for him living and coping with his disabilities, he had this message for all those struggling:
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The victim should have the right to end his life, if he wants. But I think it would be a great mistake. However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do, and succeed at. While there’s life, there is hope.
So whenever you feel like giving up, don’t. Reach out and believe that life can get better. More people need to see this so please share this powerful message!
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