choosing the right handle in challenging circumstances

“Every event has two handles — one by which it can be carried, and one by which it can’t. If your brother does you wrong, don’t grab it by his wronging, because this is the handle incapable of lifting it. Instead, use the other — that he is your brother, that you were raised together, and then you will have hold of the handle that carries.”
— Epictetus, Enchiridion, 43

In 1914, a young British explorer named Ernest Shackleton set out on an ambitious expedition to cross the Antarctic continent on foot. However, what unfolded became one of the greatest survival stories in history, demonstrating Shackleton's remarkable ability to grasp the right "handle" in the face of extreme adversity.

Before reaching the Antarctic coast, Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, became trapped in pack ice. For ten months, the ship drifted helplessly before the pressure of the ice finally crushed and sank it, leaving Shackleton and his 27-man crew stranded on the frozen Antarctic waters, thousands of miles from civilization.

At this point, Shackleton faced two potential "handles" by which to grasp the situation. He could have succumbed to despair, viewing their predicament as hopeless and accepting defeat. This handle would have likely led to low morale, inaction, and ultimately, the loss of his entire crew.

Instead, Shackleton chose to grasp the handle of responsibility and hope. He immediately shifted his mission from crossing Antarctica to ensuring the survival and safe return of every single member of his expedition. His unwavering commitment to this new goal became the cornerstone of every decision he made.

Over the next two years, Shackleton led his men through a series of harrowing ordeals. They camped on ice floes, battled extreme cold, starvation, and despair. When the ice began to break up, they made a perilous journey in lifeboats to the inhospitable Elephant Island.

From there, Shackleton and five men embarked on an 800-mile open-boat journey across one of the world's most treacherous stretches of ocean to reach South Georgia Island. After landing on the wrong side of the island, they then had to cross its uncharted interior on foot — a feat never before accomplished.

Throughout these ordeals, Shackleton consistently chose the handle that would keep his men's spirits up and move them towards survival. He maintained strict routines, organized games on the ice, and ensured fair food rationing. He was known to give his own rations and warm clothing to others who needed them more.

Perhaps most importantly, Shackleton never let his men lose hope. He exuded confidence and optimism, even in the darkest moments. Frank Worsley, his captain, later wrote, "Shackleton's spirits never seemed to flag. He was the life and soul of the party."

After reaching the whaling station on South Georgia, Shackleton immediately began organizing rescue missions for the men left behind. Despite several failed attempts due to pack ice, he persisted until finally, in August 1916, he succeeded in rescuing every single member of his crew.

Shackleton's ability to choose the right handle in the face of extreme adversity not only saved the lives of his entire crew but also created a lasting legacy of leadership under pressure. His story serves as a powerful illustration of Epictetus' wisdom, showing how our choice of perspective can dramatically influence outcomes, even in the most challenging circumstances.

New Release: "The Virtue of Justice" by Parth Sawhney

Volume 3 in the "Handbooks for Stoics" series

Unlock the transformative power of justice in this compelling addition to the "Handbooks for Stoics" series. Parth Sawhney delves deep into the Stoic virtue of justice, revealing how it can guide us toward right action and fortify our moral compass.

In "The Virtue of Justice," readers will discover:

• How to cultivate a robust conscience through Stoic principles
• Practical techniques for discerning and taking right action in challenging situations
• Methods to strengthen moral resolve and ethical decision-making
• The role of justice in personal growth and societal progress

Sawhney offers a blend of ancient wisdom and modern application, providing readers with:

• Thought-provoking exercises to train and sharpen moral intuition
• Real-world scenarios that test and reinforce ethical reasoning
• Strategies to align daily choices with Stoic ideals of justice

Whether you're a longtime Stoic practitioner or new to the philosophy, this handbook serves as an invaluable guide to living a more principled life. Learn how embracing justice can lead to inner peace, stronger relationships, and a more equitable world.

Embark on this enlightening journey with Sawhney and discover how to forge an unshakeable ethical foundation in an often-challenging world.