The Stoic Magazine Library

My earlier self made a brief appearance, thinking, “Oh my God… We drove all this way, for this?!”– but she was quieted by a calmer, happier, more Stoic version of myself who thought, “Well, let’s keep going and see what we find out. These things do happen. Best not to react just yet.” And so we did.

I now know that my past actions and ways of thinking only brought struggle – to myself and to others. A life with joy is so much better.

When I stopped trying to control everything around me and focused only on what was within my own influence, my life changed dramatically.

The gardener doesn’t prepare one row, or plant one seed, or harvest one ripe tomato from a single plant. Labour is replicated and layered – stacking action on action.

As Stoics, but also as caring persons, do we not have an obligation to provide for our fellow beings in ways that foster the happiness and well-being of others?

If asked to consider the essence of Stoicism, I can only respond that I am still learning.  I’m not an expert (far from it) but after ten years of intentionally seeking out Stoic communities, reading the work of Stoic thinkers, engaging in Stoic practice, and participating in Stoic events, I consider myself much more a Stoic than not a Stoic.  As I consider the time I’ve already spent living, and the time I may have left, I know that I’m much happier and better off with Stoic principles guiding my way.  

For if any man should conceive certain things as being really good, such as prudence, temperance, justice, fortitude, he would not after having first conceived these endure to listen to anything which should not be in harmony with what is really good. - Marcus Aurelius,  Meditations, 5.12