Maybe we should just realise that life is inherently lined with struggle and despair and obstacle. At least with this philosophy we won't face disappointment or contradiction when we are faced with unpleasantness, anxiety, hurt, etc.

Instead of reaching for bright, cheery aphorisms, then, what about reading up on quotes from bleak, anti-socialist, depressing philosophers?

Maybe that will, ironic as it is, cheer us up.

Thoughts, y'all.