“What’s coming will come and we’ll meet it when it does.”
This simple yet profound piece of wisdom comes from a source beloved by millions: J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Spoken by the kind-hearted giant Rubeus Hagrid, these words offer a powerful guide for navigating life’s uncertainties. The quote elegantly balances two essential concepts. First, it acknowledges the reality that some events are beyond our control. Subsequently, it champions our inner strength to face whatever the future holds. This philosophy is not about passive resignation. Instead, it is a call for courage, resilience, and a focus on the present moment.
Unpacking the Two Halves of Courage
The quote’s brilliance lies in its two-part structure. Each half presents a distinct mindset. When combined, they create a balanced approach to life’s challenges. One part encourages acceptance, while the other inspires action. Together, they form a practical mantra for building mental fortitude and reducing unnecessary worry. Let’s explore what each piece truly means.
Accepting the Inevitable: “What’s coming will come”
This first clause addresses a fundamental human struggle: the desire to control the future. We often spend immense energy worrying about what might happen. We create countless scenarios in our minds, many of which are negative and draining. However, this part of the quote gently reminds us that the future is, by its nature, unpredictable. Certain events will unfold regardless of our anxiety.
Accepting this does not mean giving up. Rather, it means letting go of the burden of trying to manage the unmanageable. It frees up mental and emotional resources. Instead of wasting energy on ‘what ifs,’ we can redirect it toward what we can actually influence. This mindset helps us find peace in the present. It allows us to stop fighting against the current and instead learn how to navigate it.
Rising to the Occasion: “and we’ll meet it when it does”
This second clause is the empowering counterpoint to the first. It is a declaration of confidence and resilience. While we cannot control what comes our way, we can control how we respond. This is where our power truly lies. The phrase “we’ll meet it” suggests readiness, not fear. It implies standing firm and facing challenges head-on with the skills and strength we possess at that moment.
Furthermore, this idea promotes a focus on personal growth. If we know we must meet future challenges, it motivates us to prepare ourselves today. This preparation isn’t about predicting the future. Instead, it involves building our inner resources. For example, we can develop problem-solving skills, nurture supportive relationships, and practice self-compassion. It is a commitment to becoming the person who can handle whatever life throws their way.
The Magical Context: A Lesson from Hogwarts
To fully appreciate the quote, we should consider its origin. Hagrid says these words to Harry, Ron, and Hermione in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The students are worried about the dangerous and unpredictable Triwizard Tournament. Hagrid, acting as a voice of grounded wisdom, offers this advice to calm their fears. His message is clear: worrying won’t change the tasks ahead, but you have the strength to face them when the time comes.
This context adds significant weight. The advice is not given in a vacuum. It is for young people facing literal life-or-death situations. Consequently, it underscores the quote’s power to provide comfort and courage even in the most daunting circumstances. It highlights a recurring theme in the series: that courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to act in spite of it. Source
Applying Ancient Wisdom in a Modern World
While this advice comes from a fantasy world, its application in our reality is incredibly practical. It serves as a powerful tool for managing mental health and fostering personal development. In a world filled with constant news cycles and social pressures, this simple mantra can be a grounding force.
A Tool Against Anxiety
Anxiety often stems from catastrophic thinking about the future. This quote directly challenges that thought pattern. By embracing the idea that “what’s coming will come,” we can reduce the power of anxious thoughts. This approach aligns with principles of mindfulness and acceptance-based therapies, which encourage observing thoughts without judgment and focusing on the present moment. Indeed, many people find that this mindset helps lower their overall stress levels.
Anxiety is a significant issue for many people. Adopting a philosophy of acceptance and preparedness can be a helpful coping strategy. Source
Fostering Resilience and Adaptability
Life is inherently unpredictable. Careers change, relationships evolve, and unexpected obstacles appear. The second half of the quote, “we’ll meet it when it does,” is a motto for resilience. It builds a belief in our own ability to adapt and overcome. This proactive mindset encourages us to see challenges not as insurmountable barriers but as opportunities for growth.
When you trust in your ability to handle the future, you become more flexible. You are less likely to be derailed by setbacks. Instead, you can assess the situation, draw upon your strengths, and find a path forward. This adaptability is a crucial skill for success and well-being in the 21st century.
In summary, J.K. Rowling’s simple quote offers a profound blueprint for a courageous life. It teaches us to release our grip on the uncontrollable future and to trust in our own strength to handle what comes. By balancing acceptance with readiness, we can navigate life’s journey with less fear and more confidence.