“A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without trials.”Seneca
In modern life, facing challenges is like the friction needed to polish ourselves. Just like how a sculptor needs to chisel away at a stone to reveal its true form, we need trials to reveal our best selves.
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Courage is the Stoic pillar represented here, as this quote emphasizes the necessity of trials in the process of self-improvement. This aligns with the Christian perspective found in James 1:2-4, where facing trials is seen as an opportunity for growth and the development of endurance, leading to becoming 'perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.' Both Stoicism and Christianity affirm the courage needed to confront difficulties as a means of character refinement and spiritual growth.