Kings of the Trail #106
- Luke Jarman
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 13
Go Further & Explore More...
“Having the will to endeavour difficult tasks is what separates the hero from the coward.”
Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus and Seneca are the most widely known Stoic thinkers and philosophers in the modern age. For various reasons, these three great minds contributed more to our understanding of, and appreciation for, Stoic philosophy than any others, including the founding fathers of the philosophy. From what is left of their teachings, lectures and writings from the ancient world, we are provided with important insights into some of the differences in interpretation of Stoicism that later followers took and how they differed from the original protagonists like Zeno of Citium and, subsequently, Cleanthes. More importantly, these remaining fragments paint a vivid picture of the common themes and repeating ideas that can be found as ever-present in Stoicism. One such idea is that enduring some form of hardship and struggle is important in helping someone to improve and grow as a person. In their own ways, all three were seen to put this theory into practice, whether through sports and leisure pursuits (including long-distance running or boxing) or through the necessity of dealing with the horrors of war, famine and illness. Seneca regularly used the Latin phrase ‘Luctor et emergo’ - ‘I struggle and emerge’ in his writings. In a Stoic’s mind, you can not truly know what you are capable of until you are tested and pushed. It is precisely through these hard times when we need to be dedicated, apply the necessary application and demonstrate resilience and determination that we can discover how far we can go and what we can become. To the Stoics, this was a vital element that contributed to living a 'good life’…
Until next week, be safe and enjoy the trails...
‘Hero’ might be a tad bit strong, but completing an ultra marathon can take a heroic effort, so get the low-down on what it takes with this guide…
Being aware of the risks and dangers that any outdoor adventure could have can help to improve performance and minimise those potential hazards…
We live increasingly comfortable and stable lives, but we are often at our best when faced with challenges and difficulties. So get out there and do some of the hard stuff…
If you’re going to do it, give it everything. Tom Evans exemplifies this approach with his 100 per cent ‘all or nothing’ attitude he brings to any challenge he faces…
📸 Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais
Each week, I update the Kings of the Trail playlist with a new selection of music. Like trail runs or hikes, the playlist will be varied and eclectic, but hopefully, there will be something for everyone to enjoy…
This classic rock song from the late 1990s is an absolute belter and perfect for this week. Dave Grohl wrote this tune to show appreciation for everyday people doing amazing things. Get pumped up, sing loud and think of all the ‘ordinary’ heroes in your life…
Bonus: check out this clip of Shane Hawkins (the son of the late original drummer, Taylor Hawkins) performing this track live with the band…goosebumps!
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