Stoic Meditations

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794. The symmetry argument Feb 18, 2021

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We seem to be awfully bothered by the fact that we will one day no longer exist. And yet, we didn't suffer from the equally true fact that for a long time we didn't exist.

793. Are you so silly as to believe in Cerberus and Sisyphus? Feb 17, 2021

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Cicero disputes with his friend about whether we should be afraid of the afterlife, and concludes that we will not exist, and therefore we will not be feeling anything. It is superstition that generates fears of death.

792. On true friendship Feb 16, 2021

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Just prove to me that you are trustworthy, high-minded and reliable, and that your intentions are benign, and you’ll find that I won’t even wait for you to open your heart to me, I’ll be the first to implore you to lend an ear to my own affairs.

791. Get better today, not tomorrow Feb 15, 2021

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As it is, you say, 'I will fix my attention tomorrow': which means, let me tell you, 'Today I will be shameless, inopportune, abject: others shall have power to vex me: today I will harbor anger and envy.'

790. You are not perfect, so what? Feb 12, 2021

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Is it possible to escape error altogether? No, it is impossible: but it is possible to set one's mind continuously on avoiding error.

789. Just pay attention, will you? Feb 11, 2021

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Now if such postponement of attention is profitable, it would be still more profitable to abandon it altogether: but if it is not profitable, why do you not keep up your attention continuously?

788. How would you like death to find you? Feb 10, 2021

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For my part I would be found by death busy with some humane task, whatever it be—something noble, beneficent, advancing the common weal.

787. The real value of things Feb 09, 2021

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You were shameless and shall be self-respecting, you were untrustworthy and you shall be trusted. If you look for greater things than these, go on doing as you do now: not even a god can save you.

786. Pay attention to the cosmic trainer Feb 08, 2021

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'Get up', says the trainer, 'and wrestle again, until you are made strong.' Let this be your attitude; for know that nothing is more amenable than the mind of a human being.

785. What sort of thirst do you have? Feb 05, 2021

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Epictetus draws a distinction between natural and greedy desires, reminding us that the first ones are part of a virtuous life, while the second ones are characteristic of a sick soul.

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