Rainer Maria Rilke's quote reminds us that those who offer us comfort often carry their own burdens of difficulty and sadness. It suggests that their ability to provide solace stems from their personal experiences with struggle, which may be more profound than we realize. Comforting words are crafted not from a place of ease, but from a deep understanding of life's challenges.

In the context of Ryan Holiday's "The Ego Is the Enemy," this insight highlights the connection between empathy and personal hardship. It suggests that true compassion emerges from recognizing our shared human experiences of suffering, which can foster deeper connections between individuals. Thus, comfort is not merely a simple balm; it is a reflection of numerous trials endured and wisdom gained.