In time of difficulties, we must not lose sight of our

The words of Mao Zedong, revolutionary and architect of a nation, ring with the voice of resilience: “In time of difficulties, we must not lose sight of our achievements.” Here is a wisdom forged in fire—the reminder that when darkness presses in and trials threaten to break the spirit, one must look back upon the victories already won. Achievements are not mere memories; they are anchors that hold us steady when storms of despair rage against us.

The meaning is clear: in the face of difficulty, the human heart is quick to forget what has already been conquered. Failures rise to the surface, and doubts cloud the mind. Yet if we pause and recall the triumphs of yesterday—however small—they remind us of our strength. They prove that we have endured before, that we have risen before, and that we can endure and rise again. Mao’s words call us to hold on to these triumphs, for they are lights that guide us through the night of hardship.

Mao himself lived by this truth. During the Long March of 1934–1935, his army of revolutionaries trekked thousands of miles across mountains, rivers, and battlefields. Hunger, exhaustion, and death surrounded them, and despair could have crushed their spirit. Yet Mao continually reminded his followers not only of the vision of the future, but of what they had already accomplished—that they had survived impossible odds, defeated enemies, and sown seeds of a new dawn. It was this memory of achievement that gave them the strength to endure the impossible.

History provides other examples. Consider the story of Winston Churchill during the darkest days of World War II. Britain stood alone, bombarded from the skies, its cities in ruins. Yet Churchill urged his people to remember their courage, their heritage, and their earlier stands against tyranny. By keeping their eyes not only on the threat before them but also on their past victories, the British people found the will to resist until allies could arrive. Thus, the memory of achievement became the shield against despair.

The deeper truth of Mao’s words is this: gratitude for past triumphs fuels endurance for present struggles. Memory, when rightly used, is not a chain to keep us bound to the past, but a torch that lights our way forward. If we see only the mountain ahead, we may falter; but if we remember the mountains we have already climbed, we will find courage to keep moving. Every soul carries within it a treasury of victories, and it is wisdom to draw strength from them when hardships arise.

The lesson for you, seeker, is simple but powerful: when difficulty surrounds you, do not fix your eyes only on what you lack or what you fear. Turn also to your own story. Recall the times you endured pain, and yet lived on. Remember the days you thought you would fall, but instead you stood. Let your past achievements—no matter how small—become a testimony that you are stronger than the storm. In this way, you can transform despair into resolve.

Practical actions follow from this teaching. In moments of trial, write down three victories from your past, however modest they may be. Reflect upon the obstacles you have already overcome. Share your achievements with others, not in pride, but in remembrance that you are capable of more than you believe. When difficulty arises, let your achievements be the foundation of your courage, and the fuel for your determination.

So remember, children of tomorrow: difficulties will come, but they cannot erase what you have already achieved. Let the memory of your triumphs strengthen you. Let your past victories remind you of your strength. For the one who remembers what has been accomplished will never despair fully, but will rise again, carrying the fire of yesterday into the battles of today and the triumphs of tomorrow.