

The Hidden Path to Peace | Maintaining Calm, Day 36 of Stoic School with William Mulligan
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In today's episode, William delves into the timeless wisdom of Stoicism, focusing on how to stay calm during life's most challenging moments. Reflecting on the lives of ancient Stoics like Emperor Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, we uncover their secrets to maintaining serenity amidst chaos and adversity.
Marcus Aurelius faced the Antonine Plague, the Marcomannic Wars, and numerous assassination attempts, yet he governed with remarkable calm. Similarly, Epictetus, born a slave, endured a life filled with hardships, yet he too remained unshaken. Their ability to stay composed stemmed from deeply ingrained Stoic teachings—principles that transcend mere reading and require absorption into one's very soul.
At the heart of Stoicism lies a fundamental mantra given to its founder, Zeno of Cetium, by the Delphic Oracle: "Dye your mind with the colours of dead men." This meant immersing oneself in the teachings of past philosophers like Socrates, not just learning their words but embodying their wisdom.
William emphasises the importance of practicing Stoic principles through the "Three A's": Awareness, Assessment, and Action. This approach allows us to pause, reflect, and choose the most reasoned response in any situation, fostering calmness and confidence.
William also shares personal anecdotes, illustrating how these teachings helped him manage severe pain and find calm during trying times. He encourages listeners to soak in these philosophies and reflect on their transformative potential.