Willing, but Unable: Latin Phrase of the Day

In this series I have found these phrases quite interesting, and also insightful for human behaviour.  This next one is another I think is a perfect example of human thought and action:

volo, non valeo
WAW-loh nohn WAH-lay-oh
I am willing, but unable -- page 302 Amo, Amas, Amat and More

There is a number of Latin words that start with "v," such as: veni, vidi, vici, vale, and now volo.  I immediately think back to the scripture from Christ, "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matt. 26:41).  Our will-power and our spirit is often stronger than our bodies have strength to accomplish.  However, how often is this a problem in reverse, meaning that our body has strength, but our spirit is weak?  How does one strengthen their spirit?

Have you ever had a situation where you were willing or wanting or craving to do something, yet your lack of strength or mental fortitude had stopped you?  Sometimes when a person experiences a traumatic experience, they might resolve in their mind to overcome their new weakness!  Yet, they find that again and again they fall short of their resolutions.

One of the main themes I find in these old phrases and words, is that the troubles of the human condition has existed for a long time!  And I find comfort in that, knowing that we truly aren't alone.  Whether through our faith in God or our study of the past, or both, we find strength.

Til next time, valete!
Jonny