Give us grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. Give us courage and gaiety and the quiet mind, spare to us our friends, soften to us our enemies.

The quote "Give us grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. Give us courage and gaiety and the quiet mind, spare to us our friends, soften to us our enemies" by Robert Louis Stevenson expresses a heartfelt prayer or wish for qualities that enable a person to face life's challenges with dignity, compassion, and peace. Stevenson, the renowned Scottish author of works like Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, often explored themes of human nature and morality in his writing. This quote reflects his interest in the internal qualities that sustain us in difficult times.

The request for grace and strength to "forbear and to persevere" points to the idea of patience and resilience in the face of adversity. Grace here refers to the ability to endure challenges with dignity and composure, while strength emphasizes the inner resolve needed to keep going despite hardships. The focus is not on external circumstances but on cultivating an inner fortitude that allows one to persist through trials.

Stevenson also asks for courage, gaiety, and a quiet mind. Courage is needed to face challenges without fear, while gaiety (a sense of cheerfulness or lightness) adds an uplifting spirit, helping one to maintain joy even in difficult situations. A quiet mind is essential for peace and clarity, suggesting that amidst the chaos of life, one must cultivate calmness and focus to navigate through it effectively. These qualities are vital in creating an emotionally balanced and grounded life.

Finally, the plea to "spare to us our friends" and "soften to us our enemies" reflects Stevenson’s desire for the well-being of both those who support us and those who may oppose us. It is a call for compassion, asking for peace and goodwill in our relationships. Stevenson’s quote ultimately serves as a reflection of his humanistic beliefs, urging us to strive for personal growth and to approach life’s difficulties with grace, strength, and a peaceful heart.