If I didn't have this affliction, I would be the first. As a rule the if-clause contains an unfulfillable condition, read more

If I didn't have this affliction, I would be the first. As a rule the if-clause contains an unfulfillable condition, or the patient's own arrangement, which only he can change.

Affliction is the good man's shining scene;
Prosperity conceals his brightest ray;
As night to stars, woe read more

Affliction is the good man's shining scene;
Prosperity conceals his brightest ray;
As night to stars, woe lustre gives to man.

Strength is born in the deep silence of long-suffering hearts; not amid joy.

Strength is born in the deep silence of long-suffering hearts; not amid joy.

Thou art a soul in bliss; but I am bound
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears
read more

Thou art a soul in bliss; but I am bound
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears
Do scald me like molten lead.

When something [an affliction] happens to you, you either let it defeat you, or you defeat it.

When something [an affliction] happens to you, you either let it defeat you, or you defeat it.

Afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body, or estate.

Afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body, or estate.

Affliction's sons are brothers in distress;
A brother to relieve, how exquisite the bliss!

Affliction's sons are brothers in distress;
A brother to relieve, how exquisite the bliss!

To bear other people's afflictions, everyone has courage and enough to spare.

To bear other people's afflictions, everyone has courage and enough to spare.

Affliction is enamoured of thy parts,
And thou art wedded to calamity.

Affliction is enamoured of thy parts,
And thou art wedded to calamity.