This quote from Adrian McKinty's work, Police at the Station and They Don't Look Friendly, offers a blunt yet insightful commentary on the human condition and the consequences of ignorance. It succinctly encapsulates the idea that life's inherent difficulties are often compounded by our own lack of wisdom or poor decision-making. While life itself presents challenges universally, a person's unwise actions or decisions can amplify these struggles, making situations feel even more overwhelming. The quote’s straightforward language delivers a raw truth: intelligence—or at least the exercise of critical thinking—is crucial in navigating problems and mitigating hardships. From a philosophical standpoint, it serves as a reminder that self-awareness and learning from experience are important tools in the pursuit of a smoother, more manageable existence. It also resonates on a practical level—those who do not pause to consider consequences or fail to learn from mistakes frequently worsen their circumstances. There is an implicit call in the quote for personal responsibility and growth; life may be tough, but much of the additional difficulty we face is due to our own failures to act wisely. The quote’s candid tone might be perceived as harsh, but it rings with a form of tough love about the consequences of ignorance. In sum, this brief statement offers a powerful reflection on the interplay between life’s built-in challenges and the human capacity (or incapacity) to meet them effectively.