“We’re stronger than things are terrible.”
-@jordanbpeterson

A thread on suffering, overcoming, and narcissism

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The reason that those born between 1900-1927 are “The Greatest Generation” is because of the characteristics they developed through suffering.

They were raised during the Great Depression, then were the primary fighters in World War II.

The hardships and suffering of the twentieth century was unprecedented.

To contrast, as we have entered the twenty-first century, we now experience unprecedented levels of comfort.

Our aptitude for greatness is directly tied to our ability to withstand suffering.

Comfort creates a society of unhappy narcissists.

Today we are trapped in loops of vanity based on minor empirical achievements over one another.

This achievement-based fulfillment is why we base our self-worth on our social and intellectual status over others.

The 12 Life Learnings of Carlos Gracie Sr.
(And my thoughts)

//THREAD//

1.) Be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

Mental strength is possibly the greatest strength you could have.

While physical strength is a great supplementation, the power of the mind is essential to any great achievement.

2.) Speak to every one of happiness, health, and prosperity.

This is self-explanatory.

However, it is equally important to speak of these things to yourself.

Perfect your health,
Pursue your happiness,
Think of your prosperity.

A week before he died, Musashi wrote the Dokkōdō, or The Way of Walking Alone.

It consisted of 21 rules and provided a roadmap to live life by.

The rules are strict and harsh, but honest and powerful.

1. Accept everything just the way it is.

For generations, men have been known for dominance and control.

However, not everything can be controlled.

Flexibility is a key aspect in an even-tempered man.

2. Do not seek pleasure for its own sake.

The search for pleasure is a dangerous adventure.

Along the way, many men have gotten lost in pleasure.

Alcohol
Drugs
Sex

Go into pleasure with you mind aware

Because on the other side of pleasure is pain.

3. Do not, under any circumstances, depend on a partial feeling.

Go into everything whole-heartedly and non-apologetic.

Mindless actions are typically stupid ones.

Mindless experiences are typically forgettable ones.

4. Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world.

Ego blinds and ego destroys.

Go into any experience humble and respectful of your fellow man.