The theme of the current issue is “Can Stoicism help us in all walks of our lives?” This is another way of asking ‘Is Stoicsim is a comprehensive philolosphy of life?”

This of course is a rhetorical question. Most major ancient philsophies, be it Stoicism, Epicureanism, Buddhism or some other, were developed as comprehensive guides to living well. Stoic ethics is a way of living that, if followed faithfully, will lead to a life well-lived.

In their eagerness to make Stoicism comprehensive, the ancient Stoics developed their own version of ‘physics’, which they thought formed the basis for Stoic ethics. After more than two thousand years, we now know that many principles of Stoic physics did not stand the test of time or the rigours of science. Many of their physics principles are at variance with our modern knowledge of the subject.

But here is the good news. Even though modern physics bears no resemblance to Stoic physics, Stoic ethics is quite compatible with modern psychology, psychotherapy, and neuroscience. As a matter of fact, some modern psychotherapies are based on the principles developed by the Stoics.

So, even if we reject those parts of ancient Stoicism that are incompatible with modern science, we are still left with enough that will guide us in all walks of life.

This is what you will find in this issue of THE STOIC:

Andi Sciacca explains how Stoicism helped her in her daily life. Drawing examples from recent events in her life, Andi explains how she navigated through career changes, changing residences, dealing with unreliable contractors, and other such events. She walks us through the application of Stoic principles such as dichotomy of control, choosing our response to what happens to us, and avoiding selfishness.

Brandon Tumblin explores how Stoicism can be applied to three critical aspects of life: professional challenges, relationships, and personal well-being. Whether it’s handling workplace pressures, managing relationships, or maintaining health and well-being, Stoicism encourages us to focus on what we can control, let go of what we cannot, and live in harmony with our values.

Glenn Citerony points out that Stoicism teaches us we do have choices. We have ultimate control, even in the most difficult situations. As I remind myself and others, “there’s an override button in your mind, if you choose to use it.” It doesn’t matter if your situation involves an “injustice” in the checkout line, challenges at work, dealing with a chronic illness, or the passing of a loved one. You can always find Stoic principles you can use if you look hard enough.

John Kuna views Stoicism as a philosophy of life, for every part of it. All we need to do is to be good. It means being thoughtful and doing what we can, when we can, within reasonable limits.

Michael Donaldson says that Stoicism can be applied to virtually anything that one might come across during their life. Even when our life collapses, as it surely will, the important question will be ‘how are you going to handle the situation with courage, wisdom, and peace?’ 

Finally, Karen Duffy draws our attention to the importance of living a life wired for gratitude because it connects us to the beautiful mess of being part of humanity.

Chuck Chakrapani

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