Pain is an unavoidable part of life. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or mental, no one is immune to it. The Stoics, especially philosophers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, offer a unique approach to pain. Instead of viewing it as something inherently bad, they argue that it is a natural occurrence—something that, while unpleasant, can be transcended by the power of the human spirit.

In a reflection drawn from Epictetus' teachings, we encounter the idea that while certain outcomes are inevitable—death, imprisonment, exile—we have a choice in how we experience these events. Epictetus reminds us that even if the body is in chains, our will remains free. No one, not even the gods, can conquer the human will. This profound insight becomes the foundation for understanding how Stoics approach pain.

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The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.

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