Stoicism for a Better Life – Weekly exercise (October 24, 2021)

Hello there,

This week, let us find inspiration with the slave turned philosopher’s words. Although the target quote is Discourses II 18 – 19, I will include a few other lines of Epictetus to put it into context:

“[15]Today, when I saw a good-looking girl, I didn’t say to myself, ‘It would be nice to sleep with her,’ or ‘Her husband’s one lucky guy.’ Because that’s tantamount to saying, ‘Anyone would be lucky to sleep with her, even in adultery.’ [16] Nor do I fantasize about what comes next – the woman undressing in front of me, then joining me in bed. [17] I pat myself on the back and say, ‘Well done, Epictetus, you’ve solved a devilishly difficult problem, much harder than the Master Argument itself.’ [19] So how does one get there? Start by wanting to please yourself, for a change, and appear worthy in the eyes of God. Desire to become pure, and, once pure, you will be at ease with yourself, and comfortable in the company of God.“

Through an anecdote, Epictetus reminds us that we are bound by the initial emotions, wants, cravings and feelings of this vessel we live in. The body’s immediate reactions are what we can refer to as proto-emotions. It is important to accept that proto-emotions cannot be avoided or suppressed. Through years of practice, they may be reduced in quantity and fervor, but we are tied to this body for the remainder of our lives and must learn to live with it, not despite it.

A good starting point is the recognition that proto-emotions (anger, fear, lust, jealousy, amongst other positive ones) are not us. It is the body’s primitive reactions. So this week, regardless of the context or situation, try and identify your proto-emotions and reject them if you identify them as being irrational or ignoble before you act on them. Have realistic goals though, as we will not be able to do this all the time… not even most of the time. But if you can catch a proto-emotion and reject acting on it once or twice more than you would have otherwise, you are that much more virtuous than your previous self.

As always, much love to you all and I wish you a wise, tranquil and productive week. Do share some examples if you feel comfortable.

Anderson Silver, Stoicism for a Better Life

(Author of “Your User’s Manual”, “Vol 2: Your Duality Within” & “Vol 3: Your Dichotomy of Control”)