I've been reading abit on philosophy this week when I should be reading and grading my students research reports; not very productive on the work front but very productive in my critical development as an individual.
This is my discovery from my limited reading on this topic. Greek Stoic philosopher Epictetus (AD55-AD135) once said that "All philosophy lies in two words: sustain and abstain.
First learn the meaning of what you say, and then only speak those words. So very true for many of us; most of the time we say things we don't mean and we say things that are misinterpreted by others which most of the time causes conflict. Think before you speak, bite your tongue if need be; for you will be able to avoid confrontations.
All religions must be tolerated… for every person must get to heaven in his/her own way. Who are we to judge when we are often judged by others.
Be careful to leave your children well instructed rather than rich, for the hopes of the instructed are better than the wealth of the ignorant. We often judge someone's success by material means they have (or we have), but the character and attitude of a person should be the ultimate criteria for judging success.
If evil be spoken of you and it be true, correct yourself, if it be a lie, laugh at it.
Do not seek to bring things to pass in accordance with your wishes, but instead wish for them as they are, and you will find them.
It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.
It is not he/she who reviles or strikes you who insults you, but your opinion that these things are insulting. This is sometime I'm learning everyday and I do find it hard at times. Most often we look at the things that happen to us rather than our reaction towards it.
Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens.
First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do, to make it be.
Freedom is not procured by a full enjoyment of what is desired, but by controlling the desire. Is freedom anything else than the right to live as we wish? Nothing else. Know, first, who you are, and then adorn yourself accordingly and do it with humility.
No greater thing is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. Patience is indeed a virtue. Nothing is built overnight; not even love sadly to say; it takes lots and lots of hard work and effort. Let it first blossom, then bear the fruit that is ripen.
No man is free who is not master of himself. God has entrusted me with myself. Make the most of it. Do good, be kind, show the world the warmth of your smile, always have a kind word or two & most of all; have humility as it is the essence of life itself. For people will remember you for your humility rather than your material wealth when you die.
Just my Wednesday morning thoughts. And what are your thoughts?
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