November 24

RUFUS used to say, If you are at leisure to praise me, I speak to no purpose. And indeed he used to speak in such a manner that each of us who heard him supposed that some person had accused us to him ; he so hit upon what was done by us, and placed the faults of everyone before his eyes.

EPICTETUS. DISCOURSES. Book iii. §23. ¶1.

DOTH a philosopher apply to people to hear him? Doth he not attract those who are fitted to receive benefit from him, in the same manner as the sun or their necessary food doth ? What physician applies to anybody to be cured by him ?


IT is more necessary for the soul to be cured than the body ; for it is better to die than to live ill.


1 comment:

  1. You shouldn't seek out people to teach, like you are looking for clients or buyers of philosophy. Your life should be the attraction, your example the proof of the effectiveness of the Stoic path. Those who, when they see you, feel a need to learn the skills you employ, they will come to you of their own will. Then, when you are asked, speak to them of what you have learned, and how are even now imperfectly trying to live it. Speak to them of your joy, your serenity, your path. - Inspired by Epicetus