Jun 20 2008
Stoicism
This is Epictetus:
We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how to respond to them.
If someone irritates you, it is only your own response that is irritating you. Therefore, when anyone seems to be provoking you, remember that it is only your judgment of the incident that provokes you.
Those who are dedicated to a life of wisdom understand that the impulse to blame something or someone is foolishness, that there is nothing to be gained in blaming, whether it be others or oneself.
If anyone is unhappy, remember that his unhappiness is his own fault… Nothing else is the cause of anxiety or loss of tranquility except our own opinion.
He is wise who doesn’t grieve for the things he doesn’t have, but rejoices for the things he does have.
Fortify yourself with contentment, for it is an impregnable fortress.
Yes yes, its not a complete philosophy for life, but it’s a bloody important component.
