Set One’s Heart at Rest, To
Definition:
To stop worrying; to dismiss one’s anxiety; to be at peace.
Usage:
“Set your heart at rest, my dear! Everything will be alright,” she reassured him.
Historical Origin:
This expression was famously used by William Shakespeare in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (“Set your heart at rest," 2.1) and featured in John Ray’s 1670 proverb collection. It’s an eloquent way to encourage tranquility and relinquishment of distress.
Related and Similar Terms:
- Put one’s mind at ease: To comfort someone and make them feel relaxed.
- Take a load off one’s mind: To relieve someone from worry or stress.
- Keep one’s cool: To remain calm under pressure.
Proverbs & Analogous Expressions:
- Don’t worry, be happy: A modern maxim reminding us to let go of stress and embrace happiness.
- This too shall pass: Suggesting that all difficulties and unpleasant situations are temporary.
Synonyms:
- Calm down
- Relax
- Reassure
- Tranquilize
Antonyms:
- Agitate
- Disturb
- Worry
- Upset
Humor-filled Quotes:
“Anxiety’s favorite hobby: imagining dragons in the clouds.” - Anonymous
“Of all your worries, 90% are just hamsters spinning on imaginary wheels.” - Chuckles The Thinker
Inspirational Thought:
“Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength.” – Charles Spurgeon
Literary References:
- Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” where handling whimsical problems led characters to find peace.
- “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” by Dale Carnegie – quintessential reading for anyone looking to set their heart at rest.
Music:
- “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin – A cheerful ode to letting go of anxieties.
- “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley – Encouraging reminder: “Don’t worry about a thing.”
Movies:
- “Bridge of Spies” where Tom Hanks comforts by saying, “Would it help?” – Practicing the art of not worrying.
Poetry:
- “‘Tis the mind that makes the body rich,” - William Shakespeare (The Taming of The Shrew)
Remember, dear reader, that true peace is a state of mind. Seek it joyfully, and set your heart at rest.
Farewell and find calm - Evelyn Merriweather