Finding Inner Peace: The Art of Living Amidst Chaos
Written on
The Nature of Tranquility
What does it truly mean to live well? In a series titled Peace is the Project, we delved into ways to cultivate serenity in our everyday lives. However, it’s crucial to recognize that achieving tranquility isn't always the final objective.
The late Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh articulated this in his work, Being Peace. He noted that many of us are anxious about the state of the world. The uncertainty of violence and turmoil leaves us feeling vulnerable and hopeless. In such perilous times, succumbing to panic only exacerbates the situation. To navigate these challenges, we must maintain our composure and clarity.
Hanh shares an analogy about the “boat people” in Vietnam, who often find themselves at the mercy of tumultuous seas. In moments of crisis, panic can lead to disaster, but if just one person on board remains steady and knows how to act, they can guide the others and avert catastrophe. This calm presence fosters trust and can ultimately save lives.
Living virtuously often requires us to confront our fears rather than evade them. It’s about staying composed amid life's inevitable storms.
Facing Life's Challenges
In Stoic Paradoxes, Cicero asserts, “That which is honorable is the only true good.” Take a moment to think of someone you admire, perhaps a hero from a film or a historical figure.
Cicero further posits, “What, then, is a good?” He believes that the only genuine good is that which is pursued with integrity and virtue. However, discussing these ideals in abstract terms can be unappealing; they need to be demonstrated through real-life examples. Consider the founders of our republic—did they seek wealth, luxury, or personal gratification?
The essence of living well lies more in the pursuit of wisdom than in the mere attainment of tranquility. Dilip Jeste, in his book Wiser, discusses how happiness is a worthy aim, typically accompanying the pursuit of wisdom. Yet, wisdom involves grasping the greater meaning of life and understanding your place in the world—how you can improve yourself and positively impact others.
According to Jeste, a critical aspect of wisdom is pro-social behavior—actions that benefit others and society at large. Empathy, compassion, and altruism are essential traits in this regard. Wisdom and compassion are inherently connected.
Marcus Aurelius once stated, “The fruit of this life is a good character and acts for the common good.” While one might find tranquility in solitude, it’s vital to remember that the art of living transcends the quest for peace. It’s about having the courage to face life’s storms head-on.
Learn about finding inner peace and wisdom from Jack Kornfield in this episode of the Knowledge Project Podcast.