“We must give up many things to which we are addicted, considered them to be good. Otherwise, courage will vanish, which should continually test itself. Greatness of soul will be lost, which can’t stand out unless it disdains as petty what the mob regards as most desirable.
– Seneca, Moral Letters, 74.12b-13
A friend shared this passage from the book the “Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holliday this week and I thought it was appropriate for the time of the season.
A summary of their interpretation of Seneca’s quote.
What that addiction is can vary: Soda? Drugs? Complaining? Gossip? The Internet? Judgement? Sweets? Self Control? But you must reclaim the ability to abstain because within it is your clarity and self-control.
- Harmless indulgences can turn into full-blown addictions
- It can start with coffee in the am and soon you can’t function without it
- We are hooked on checking email, iPhone, the buzz, and beeps, and can’t sleep
- It chips away at our freedom
- Are we in control?
- Let’s focus on reclaiming our freedom
January is a good time to reset.
Colin
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