Quote of the Day

[octothorpe]

When you are going about any action, remind yourself what nature the action is. If you are going to bathe, picture to yourself the things which usually happen in the bath: some people splash the water, some push, some use abusive language, and others steal. Thus you will more safely go about this action if you say to yourself, “I will now go bathe, and keep my own mind in a state conformable to nature.” And in the same manner with regard to every other action. For thus, if any hindrance arises in bathing, you will have it ready to say, “It was not only to bathe that I desired, but to keep my mind in a state conformable to nature; and I will not keep it if I am bothered at things that happen.”

—Epictetus

I can appreciate this quote, as it fits somewhat into my personal philosophy on worrying. However, I also believe there are many things for which it is important to get bothered. For example, I don't think you're doing yourself, nor anyone else a favour if you are sitting idly while someone around you is suffering presently from an injustice. Of course, this raises the question of "natural conformity". Perhaps it is the injustice itself that is not conforming to nature.

Comments

my mind conforms to my nature

[animbear.livejournal.com]

For some reason I was picturing muddy rugby players showering while reading that quote.
Philosophy is hot!

[danbearnyc.livejournal.com]

Wow, what an Epic Tetus!

[mediamutt.livejournal.com]

I used to think the same way, but I believe what is really meant is that "accepting" a thing doesn't mean you don't work to change it. It only means at that very moment it simply is what it is; no point in denying reality. Instead, by focusing on that it becomes much clearer what you can change and what you cannot.

[theoctothorpe.livejournal.com]

Which sheds a bit of light on my personal philosophy on worrying. There are two types of problems in the world: those that you can solve, and those that you can't solve. There is no sense in worrying about the stuff you can solve, and there is no sense in worrying about the stuff you can't solve.