Lately I have been dipping my toes into ancient forms of philosophy. I feel like there are wisdoms that can transcend time and culture, and I want to be exposed to those teachings to hopefully formulate my life, and my being, in a better and wiser way. Lately, I've been reading quotes from some of the most famous Stoics; namely Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius. And while things have clearly changed since the 3rd century, when Stoicism began, I find that many of their writings are incredibly relevant today; particularly their reflections on wealth and possessions. We currently live in an extremely consumerist society, in which there's an underlying sentiment that we will be happier when we finally get that thing we want. The nicer car, the bigger house, the designer clothes. However, the Stoics point out, and I believe this to be true, that more things will never bring us peace or happiness. But becoming content and grateful with what we already have will.
"Freedom isn't secured by filling up on your heart's desire but by removing your desire." -Epictetus
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Archives
May 2023
|