These things happen

usually used with the words "I suppose...." before "these things happen." A phrase which is similar to shit happens and it is what it is. This expression, though, implies that the action that caused the saying of the phrase was so hopelessly terrible to the speaker, that him/her don't have anything to say, and use it as a means of justifying the terrible event.

A consolation offered to someone who has just experienced something shameful or embarrassing. This may be particular to Northern Ireland but I cannot confirm.

Seems common place amongst traditional working class families, a type of "stiff upper lip" attitude.

this is the second worst thing happening for you today, I don't what is the first worst thing but I bet its bad.

A plan or action with some possibility of a successful outcome. Most often encountered in its negative form.