On October 16th, we are treated to an inspiring quote from Marcus Aurelius, which invites us to approach the principles of life in a resilient way, like a boxer who never lets his hands fall. Let's explore the wisdom behind this quote and understand how we can apply it to our Stoic journey.
“In the use of principles we must be like the boxer and not like the swordsman. For when he drops his sword, he is doomed. But the first has his hands always at his side and he only needs to hold them up.” – Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 12, 9.
This quote invites us to consider our approach to the principles that guide our lives. She suggests that we should hold on to these principles steadily, like a boxer with his hands always at his side, rather than letting them drop like a swordsman. Let's unpack the underlying meaning and explore how this metaphor applies to Stoicism.
The Boxer Metaphor
The metaphor of the boxer and the swordsman is a powerful one. The swordsman depends on an external weapon (the sword) and is doomed if he lets it go. In contrast, the boxer trusts his own abilities and keeps his hands always at his side, ready to act. In Stoicism, this translates into the idea that ethical principles should be internalized and an intrinsic part of who we are, not something external that can be abandoned.
Stoic Principles
Stoicism teaches that virtue, wisdom and the pursuit of the common good are fundamental principles. These principles should guide our daily actions and decisions. Just as a boxer keeps his hands ready for action, we must keep our principles close at hand, ready to guide us in times of challenge.
Ethical Resilience
The quote also highlights ethical resilience. The boxer, with his hands always at his side, is able to resist his opponent's blows. Likewise, when we hold our ethical principles close and apply them consistently, we are able to resist life's temptations, challenges, and adversities.
self-mastery
The metaphor also highlights self-control. The boxer does not let his hands fall, showing control over his actions. Likewise, Stoicism emphasizes self-mastery as an essential quality for act in accordance with ethical principles.
Conclusion
The day's reflection reminds us that, in Stoicism, our ethical principles must be like a boxer's hands, always ready to act. We must internalize these principles, making them an inseparable part of who we are. This helps us to be more resilient, ethical and act with self-control.
As we apply this metaphor to our lives, we seek live according to stoic principles, facing challenges with resilience, ethics and self-control.
This article explored the October 16th reflection from the book “365 Stoic Reflections”, highlighting the importance of grasping principles like a boxer, internalizing them as ethical guides on our journey.
