Greetings Friends,
Here’s 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, these are casual conversations attempting 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.”
Paradoxically Speaking explores principles and practices from multiple sides. 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 life's complexities, we strive to keep things practical.
The Hero’s Journey (Part I)
In this episode, we explore The Power of Myth (a series with Joseph Campbell) and the resonance of stories, particularly in relation to Lord of the Rings and other epic tales. We delve into the hero's journey and the call to adventure, highlighting the importance of growth and maturity. The discussion touches on breaking through personal limitations and the agony of spiritual growth. The concept of avoiding unpleasantness and the path to wisdom is explored, along with the role of honesty and self-awareness in personal development.
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