People seek retreats for themselves, houses in the country, sea-shores, and mountains; and thou too art wont to desire such things very much. But this is altogether a mark of the most common sort of people, for it is in your power whenever you shall choose to retire into yourself.
— Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
I’ve just came back from a hike this morning. The first time on a mountainside for a while. It’s the fresh air for sure, I’m absolutely convinced in fact where I get the clarity to think and move myself forward.
The reason I’m writing this newsletter now is because I came from outside to share my thoughts. If we look at Ancient Athens and the beginning of two opposing schools. The Epicurean’s sat in Epicurus’ walled off garden and enjoyed a similar feeling, most of the time avoiding politics and needless gossip. The Stoics, however sat in the busiest marketplace in the city and debated Philosophy amongst masses of people going about their business, taking on the world with courage, social justice, moderation, and wisdom in mind.
What I am trying to draw on is the ability for balance in our lives. Depending on your viewpoint you might think Epicureanism is a competitor of Stoicism (they are rival schools), however I like to draw on each Philosophy for contemporary and opposing thoughts.
I will frame it like this, sometimes you need the solace of a private space where you can be with your own ideas, and thoughts or time with your inner circle - and at other times it’s important to be out of your comfort zone engaging with the world, even if it results in a negative situation. Both provide different outcomes, but have opportunity for growth.
I can get inspired or recharged by sitting reading a book in the fresh air, which gives me great energy and inner peace. I can then go out in the open world and engage in activities, and social duties which give me a chance to hone in my skills, and fulfil obligations as part of character development.
Sitting somewhere between the stereotypical introverted feeling and extroverted sense have served me well. Balance. Moderation. Not tipping the scales too much to one side, that’s where the Tranquility lies for me.
That’s just me though. It doesn’t have to be like that. Marcus Aurelius reminded himself frequently in his meditations; That we don’t need to go out to the mountains, or the beaches. He writes;
But all this is quite unphilosophic, when it is open to you, at any time you want, to retreat into yourself. No retreat offers someone more quiet and relaxation than that into his own mind. So constantly give yourself this retreat, and renew yourself.
— Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
You might have limited movement, or lack of resources to get to where you would like to be. This won’t stop you from living a good life. We’re reminded constantly in Stoic practices and other Philosophies for living that our ability to achieve a good life is in our ability to control the mind and it’s perception and reaction to events. I encourage you to take in your surroundings, whether it’s the confines of your house, or the open world and find something there that challenges you.
A final reminder from Marcus;
Finally, then, remember this retreat into your own little territory within yourself. Above all, no agonies, no tensions. Be your own master, and look at things as a human being, as a citizen, as a mortal creature.
— Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
ICYMI
I’ve been active outside this newsletter. It’s a good time to highlight some articles I’ve written recently, which you may find interesting;
For our Medium Publication; A full biography of Epictetus and resources for learning more about him: Epictetus: The Stoic Sage that inspired generations
The first of a new series of articles for the blog, Stoic Simple;
Stoicism & Death: Facing Fears of Mortality with Stoic Beliefs