In search of moderation

Sophrosyne, a Greek term embodying moderation, self-control and balance, resonates deeply with the tale of Daedalus’ tragic awakening, where his greatest triumph turned into a heartbreaking loss. Exiled from Athens to Crete, Daedalus and his son Icarus ingeniously crafted wings from wax and feathers to escape their imprisonment. As they soared towards freedom, Icarus, overwhelmed by excitement of their impossible achievement, ignored his father’s cautions about flying too close to the sun or the sea. His disregard led to a tragic fall right before Daedalus’ eyes.

This poignant story reveals a timeless life lesson: height of joy and depth of sorrow evoke powerful emotions. The fragility of human desires reminds us to recognise our mortal limits, and importance of balance. It requires a deep understanding of the nature of our ego and illusions we create about our own invincibility. To achieve this equilibrium, one must cultivate mastery over pride, overconfidence and fleeting satisfaction with material achievements.

The concept of samadarshi from the Bhagwad Gita refers to equal vision, free from attachment, prejudice or discrimination. It lets us approach happiness and sorrow, success and failure, with composure. Sophrosyne and samadarshi underline balance, a sense of order and control over one’s inner world. This balance enables us to embrace all with equal measure, in moderation. And, in this, we find the greatest wisdom.