Philosophy Friday: Stay Calm

Photo by Faye Cornish on Unsplash

“It does not matter what you bear, but how you bear it.” – Seneca

COVID-19 infections are on the increase again. A severe economic recession could follow the pandemic. Tension is building between a rising superpower, China, and the incumbent, the US. 

Should these developments worry us? Most of us have no significant influence on political policy and how this will play out. We could panic. But when has panicking ever improved a situation? Or worrying provided anyone with better choices?

“The man who has anticipated the coming of troubles takes away their power when they arrive.” – Seneca

What helps is staying calm. Being the rock that the waves break over – unmoved and unperturbed, as Marcus Aurelius says. Quiet, relaxed, composed, keeping a cool head. That is what we need now – and always. That’s what we each can do.

Panicking is easy – it takes strength to stay calm.

“To bear trials with a calm mind robs misfortune of its strength and burden.” – Seneca

Calm is contagious. That can be our way of reducing the waves and soothing the waters. 

Stay calm. That is how you can help.