Stoicism for a Better Life – Weekly exercise (June 26, 2019)

Hello there,

This week for our guidance, Seneca tells us about the “other side of the coin” vis a vis his cautioned advice to give up what is unnecessary in his moral letters V 2:

“Repellent attire, unkempt hair, slovenly beard, open scorn of silver dishes, a couch on the bare earth, and any other perverted forms of self-display, are to be avoided. The mere name of philosophy, however quietly pursued, is an object of sufficient scorn; and what would happen if we should begin to separate ourselves from the customs of our fellow-men? Inwardly, we ought to be different in all respects, but our exterior should conform to society.”

Two weeks ago we talked about the lack of virtue to be found in self-deprivation (e.x. cold showers) and last week in “things” we own. Getting rid of things we own does not bring virtue into our lives, and in fact, it may (as Seneca tells us above) be an ignoble act in itself. If you are so different from society’s general expectation, as an outsider you may cause more harm than good. How can you help make the world better, if no one even looks at you? This week it is another reminder as to why there is no virtue in doing things, or giving things up, but virtue is to be found in “why?” we do said things.

Personally, one of the main reasons I subscribe to Stoicism as a guide for my life is due to its fluidity as a form of virtue ethics. It rarely gives a black and white rule to follow but leaves it up to us to determine what is virtuous. And in fact, almost any heinous act can be virtuous depending on the extenuating circumstances, though this is a topic for another day. So this week, look at your minimalist life, your disciplined approach to life, or any other restriction you have imposed on yourself in your pursuit of a tranquil life and make sure whatever it is you are doing, that you are doing for the RIGHT reasons. Virtue is not found in the act, but rather in the purpose behind the act.

Much love to you all and as usual, I wish you a wise and productive week.

Anderson Silver

(Author of “Your User’s Manual” and “Vol 2: Your Duality Within”)