whatever

This word has become synonymous with teenage apathy and indifference.

That's a shame, but it was great to see a record turnout amongst voters for the US election. Apathy was replaced with enthusiasm. People wanted change.

The last two lines of the hymn 'Be Thou My Vision' are:

Heart of my own heart, whatever befall
Still be my vision, O ruler of all.

Here the word whatever speaks of resolution and determination, come what may.

Personally I'm pleased that President Obama will take up office in January. You may not be so pleased.

But, whatever befall, we still worship the ruler of all.

Though the fig-tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Saviour.
Habakkuk 3:17-18 (NIV)