The idiom "cross to bear" means a problem or burden that someone has to deal with or carry throughout their life. It refers to a difficult or unpleasant situation that a person must endure, often due to circumstances beyond their control.
For example, if someone has a chronic illness, it can be described as their "cross to bear." Similarly, if someone has a difficult family member or a challenging job, they may refer to it as their "cross to bear."
The phrase comes from the Christian tradition, where Jesus was made to carry a heavy wooden cross on his back before his crucifixion. It is often used to describe a situation that is difficult to overcome or endure, but that must be faced nonetheless.
In summary, "cross to bear" is an idiom that refers to a difficult or unpleasant situation that someone must deal with or carry throughout their life. It is often used to describe a burden that is beyond a person's control and that they must endure.
• My job is my cross to bear, but I am grateful for it.
• The loss of his father was a heavy cross to bear for him.
• The company's financial troubles have become a heavy cross to bear for the CEO.
• His addiction to drugs has been a cross to bear for his family, who have been struggling to help him overcome it.
• As a political leader, managing the expectations of the public and the country's economy is a heavy cross to bear.
• Being a caregiver for her disabled son is a cross to bear, but she does it with love and devotion.