Stoic Meditations

We are in love with our vices; we uphold them and prefer to make excuses for them rather than shake them off. The reason is unwillingness, the excuse, inability. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

Do you find yourself in the thralls of fear, jealousy, or anger? Do you act inconsistently in life? Then you ain't wise yet. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

One of the major differences between Stoics and Aristotelians has always been the treatment of disruptive emotions, such as anger and fear. They are helpful, in small measure, for Aristotle, but definitely to avoid for the Stoics. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

We have become alternately merchants and merchandise, and we ask, not what a thing truly is, but what it costs. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

From the point of view of someone who has managed to overcome his attachment for externals, people going after riches and luxuries look like fools. Are you one of them? --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

Seneca reminds us that in the time of Nero - just like today - famous, rich and powerful people are hiding much evil under a thin coating of titles. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

Seneca, who knew a thing or two about wealth, warns us about pursuing it. A mind that revels in luxury, he says, is a mind that has lost its balance. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

Seneca reminds us that striving to be a better person is an end in itself, not to be pursued in order to boast to others of our accomplishments. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

Seneca reminds us that Alexander the Great conquered everything, except his own destructive emotions, which led to endless grief for him and his friends. Beware, therefore, of reacting in anger to your problems. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support

Doesn't it take time to practice Stoicism? We are all so busy! Here is Marcus Aurelius' response to that question. A response that applies also if you are a Christian, or a Buddhist, among other things. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support