The Stoic Life

“We always have a choice about the contents and character of our inner lives.”

- Epictetus

            Although I’ve never before read Epictetus, already I feel that we would be good friends were we to ever meet.  I try to live by the idea that I shouldn’t worry myself over the things I can’t control.  I never took this idea as far as Epictetus proceeds to, nor do I find it as the overall guiding rule in my life, but I still apply it often.  Usually, this principle comes to mind when I hear others complaining.  Often, in fact, I am told that I’m insensitive when others are complaining because I do not share their sorrow.  If a friend comes to me and begins complaining or worrying about something, I try to give them ideas on how they can fix their problem.  If all of the ideas I submit cannot be done, I ask what can be.  If my friend replies that nothing can be done, I ask them why are they worrying about it because it is out of their control.  Perhaps it does appear insensitive, but I’d like to think that Epictetus would have my back on this one.

            Epictetus’ Art of Living isn’t simply theory for philosophers.  It is a manual for living life.  Just as power tools come with manuals on how to best operate them, Epictetus has written a manual for how to best operate oneself.  In following his guidelines, one will live a better life than one who dismisses them.  In my opinion, Epictetus’ manual is a starting point.  It lays a foundation so that one may live a good life.  However, it appears that in following the Art of Living, one simply reacts to life.  I believe one should go out and seek the life they want, while simultaneously understanding what is, and isn’t, within our control.