If one can stick to the training throughout the many long years, then will power is no longer a problem. It's raining? That doesn't matter. I am tired? That's beside the point. It's simply that I just have to.
-Emil Zatopek
I think Zatopek is right, and his thoughts are in line with the philosophical thought of one of my favorite philosophers--Aristotle. Zatopek's claim is that after running becomes a true habit of the will, an integral part of one's character, then the barriers to running are irrelevant. Aristotle argues along the same lines with respect to moral development. We don't acquire the virtues in the classroom, but rather by habit. We become just by doing just actions, according to Aristotle. If there is some virtue I want to develop, such as patience or compassion, I must seek out situations in which I can do patient or compassionate actions. I could simply go for a drive here in Kentucky, and numerous opportunities for patience will come my way (and I often fail!). The lesson is that if we care about living good moral lives, we should place a "running-like focus" on our moral growth as well. We don't become better runners unless we intend to do so and carry out our intentions. Similarly, we don't become better people unless we intend to do so.
2 comments:
Good reminder, thanks! I think I often compartmentalize parts of my life and don't always see how the different parts can impact and improve each other.
Mike,
Runner and Philosopher here..I agree with comment that running can become such a habit that it becomes part of a persons character. In my case I have run for 32 yrs, every day for last 10 yrs, nothing stops me. Moral development must follow mans knowledge of himself, which follows man's knowledge of truth and reality. You are correct that morality is a habit that can be developed and practiced in circumstances that require moral behaviour (which is very moment f our lives any) Padraig
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