Dear Friends,
Here is the latest episode of Paradoxically Speaking — a podcast with my good friend Brandon Tumblin (from The Strong Stoic Newsletter). For anyone new to Paradoxically Speaking, our conversations attempt to explore the complexities and nuances of living our highest good in the modern world.
What is Paradoxically Speaking?
Paradoxes exist nearly everywhere — even in the area of self-improvement. In the classic On Becoming a Person, psychologist Carl Rogers wrote, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When you encounter a paradox — there is potential and opportunity within the tension.
As the nineteenth-century Danish physicist Niels Bohr put it, “How wonderful that we have met with a paradox. Now we have some hope of making progress.”
Our conversations typically explore principles and practices from many sides (which we understand may not be for everyone). For example, we are interested in human goodness (virtue) and our capacity for evil (vice). The wisdom of connection and the power of solitude. The importance of structure and the need for flexibility. Although we intentionally explore the complexities of living well — we strive to keep things practical.
On Being a Friend to Yourself
In this episode, Brandon and I explore the concept of love as an infinite resource and delve into the complexities and paradoxes of love. We discuss the impact of toxic relationships and the importance of self-preservation—the dark side of human nature and the skills and nuances of love. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the journey (and paradox) of self-love.
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