The Fascinating Indifference to Courage Sometimes Displayed
Ryan Holiday's latest book, "Courage Is Calling: Fortune Favours the Brave," is the latest addition to his Stoic Virtue series. The book, which emphasizes the crucial role of courage in leading a meaningful life, is now available on various platforms.
Holiday argues that courage isn't solely about physical bravery, but also about standing up for one's beliefs, demonstrating qualities like creativity, generosity, and perseverance. He draws from historical figures and philosophical insights to illustrate how cultivating courage can lead to a more extraordinary and effective life.
The book serves as an urgent call to action for each reader to find their own courage. It encourages readers to confront their fears and live with purpose, rather than succumbing to the allure of cowardice.
In a recent endorsement, award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey praised the book, stating it traces the history of courage and its various faces. McConaughey, known for his thoughtful and introspective public statements, is a fitting ambassador for a book that encourages readers to delve deep into their own courage.
However, the need for courage is not just a historical or philosophical concept. The problem of cowardice is not limited to politics, as many people have more power and influence than they choose to wield. The book offers practical strategies for overcoming fear and living with purpose, making it a relevant and timely read for today's audience.
Unfortunately, history is rife with examples of individuals and institutions that failed to act courageously when it mattered most. In the annals of Roman history, Thrasea, a senator who defied, challenged, and refused to obey an unstable and unqualified individual, stands as a beacon of courage. However, most of Rome's senators did nothing to prevent the individual's actions, choosing instead to rubber stamp their policies and accept their lies.
In modern times, the American Senate, too, has been criticized for its propensity to avoid taking bold, courageous action. Ezra Klein recently observed that the American Senate has a strange life of rising far in politics, wielding power, but being afraid.
"Courage Is Calling" serves as a reminder that courage calls us, but many choose to ignore it, letting it ring and saying they'll answer it later. By providing a practical roadmap to overcome fear and live with purpose, Holiday's book offers a valuable resource for anyone seeking to live a more courageous and fulfilling life.
This book, "Courage Is Calling: Fortune Favours the Brave," encourages readers to develop qualities like creativity, generosity, and perseverance as part of their personal growth, leading to a more extraordinary and effective lifestyle. By embracing courage and living with purpose, one can enhance their relationships and education-and-self-development journey, fostering a more meaningful life.
