The German word for passion is Leidenschaft. The word translates literally to ‘the essence of suffering’. It is analogous to the German word Freundschaft, which translates to Friendship.
It turns out that the English word passion also shares similar roots. Passion is synonymous with suffering. This becomes clear when you think of the term ‘the passion of Christ’, which refers to Christ’s suffering during his trial and crucifixion.
The word ‘passion’ gets thrown around too casually these days. It is often confused with what we enjoy doing. However, our passion is not merely that which we love or enjoy doing. Our passion is that for which we are prepared to suffer.
What is it that you choose to do even if you know that you might suffer greatly as a consequence? That is your passion.
Observations 