There is so much about Stoicism that I really like, especially Epictetus.Some of the emphasises that I particularly like Include the ideas of indifference or neutrality to things that have no immediate reference to one's life or society, and the development of character and integrity being important not only to the individual but to the society in general.
In some ways it reminds me of an old friend who wrote the book *Handbook to Higher Consciousness" quite a long time ago. That book changed my life.
One of his main theses was the difference between preference and addiction In relationship to one's peace of mind and happiness.
When I'm addicted to things being my way, to people thinking the same as me, to thinking that I know everything better than others and require everyone to agree with me - or else I lose my temper, or I do manipulative things, or character assassination, or shun them, or begin name calling, or stone throwing, or some form of attack - I have given away my integrity , my standing to myself, and my rational thinking, along with my peace of mind and my happiness. Standing in the state of addiction it is impossible to be at peace or to be happy.
However, If I choose preference as my modus operandi, I can notice other people's points of view may differ from my current ideas. I can disagree with them resoectfully. I can say things like "that's an interesting way to look at this." I can choose to do research and see if there's any grain of truth in their point. I can be willing to change my mind when I get new information..And I can stay at peace and happy and true tho my highest self without requiring them to change.
Currently, I see many addicted people, some almost hysterical, and absolutely 1,000% sure they're right and everybody else is wrong. They don't listen at all. They remind me of the pharaoh in the Old Testament - his heart was closed. Many people walking around right now Have closed hearts and minds, and I don't think it serves them or society. Let's just walk and talk and act a little more gently and kindly!. Let's open our hearts and minds to one another and realize there's so much to learn No one can possibly know it all. Walk gently on this earth and leave a trail of kindness and love.
No comments:
Post a Comment