What do we consider the ultimate accolade for our behaviour? Is it when we triumph in circumstances where the winds were blowing in our favour, or when our fortunes are gained through chance? No, the true accolade is when we prevail by steadying a ship that has had to navigate hard seas, when we overcome hardship and realise our strength beyond what we thought possible. It is through these feats that we begin to understand the meaning of character and there can be no greater teacher of this art of living than the philosophy of a Stoic, especially Epictetus.
Unlike many other philosophers, Epictetus was born into slavery and served in Rome until his exile. He then dedicated his life to philosophy, believing that its wisdom was not meant only for the elite and educated, but for everyone seeking to endure life’s hardships.
Epictetus believed that it is our circumstances that reveal who we truly are. Just like an Olympian running a marathon, nothing good in life is accomplished without sweat. We must not flee at the first sight of fear or abandon our journey. To determine our character, we must first redefine what fear means, as we should not fear the things beyond our control but instead hold steadfast to our values and principles in the things we can influence. It is how we understand what we value in life, to help us navigate when we are among indecision.
So, what is pain? To develop true character, we must have the courage to examine this question. In a universe filled with countless living beings, it is impossible to escape hardship or suffering. Even when our ship is sinking, we must resist drowning in fear, screaming, or assigning blame.
As Epictetus reminds us: “Do you not know that opinion conquers itself, and is not conquered by another? Nothing else can conquer will, except the will itself.”
When we consider what defines our true character, it is born from our response, not the response we give when things go well, but how we act when challenges arise. In times of difficulty, how often do we allow what is external to take control of us? Yet, there is always one thing we can call upon in moments of need, our character.
Character is built through finding strength within, even when surrounded by doubt. When we nurture our character, it not only redefines who we are but also nourishes the soul when we need it most.
For within ourselves is where our will begins, and what lies beyond our control is where it ends.
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