Stoicism and the Way of Seneca

“While we wait for life, life passes.” — Seneca

👁️‍🗨️ About Stoicism

Stoicism is a school of thought initiated by Zeno of Citium around the end of the fourth century BC in Athens, Greece. Practitioners of Stoicism are referred to as Stoics.

What is the Philosophy of Stoicism?

In short, Stoicism revolves around the development of self-control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions, becoming clear and unbiased thinkers, and living virtuous lives. But remember, Stoicism is for doers, not just thinkers.

Now, let’s dive into the life of one of the greatest stoics of all time.

Seneca The Stoic

Lucius Annaeus Seneca, commonly known as Seneca The Younger or just Seneca, was born around 4 BC in present-day Spain and raised in Rome. He was more than a philosopher — Seneca was one of the wealthiest people in Rome, a famous statesman, and a great playwright.

However, his life wasn’t all rainbows and sunshine. Seneca had to deal with powerful people, face disasters, endure exile, and even confront death. The way of Seneca was Stoicism, and that’s why he’s considered one of the greatest stoics of all time.

🖋️ Letters of Seneca

During the last years of his life, Seneca wrote 124 letters to his friend Lucilius, known as Moral Letters To Lucilius. These letters contain Seneca’s distilled life lessons. I’ve recently started reading the Tao of Seneca, which presents Seneca’s letters in a very readable format.

Some examples of the wisdom found in these letters:

• On Saving Time: Seneca explains how time is our most valuable currency and how to use it wisely.
• On Discursiveness in Reading: Seneca advises us to focus on timeless knowledge and sciences rather than consuming worthless content.
• And many more letters covering various topics such as friendship, the terrors of death, groundless fears, and more.

Why Am I Writing This?

As I read Seneca’s first letter, On Saving Time, I became acutely aware of the importance of time. I felt compelled to write about these lessons, not just for others but for myself. However, this isn’t for overthinkers; it’s for doers and action-takers. It’s not enough to read these letters, if not applied practically.

Don’t worry; I’m a fellow Pro-Procrastinator-3000. I’ll be applying these letters in my life and sharing my experiences with you.

🕵️ So, Here’s the Plan

👉 I’ll be sharing letters from Seneca every week, best enjoyed during your morning tea. Keep reading, and if you haven’t subscribed yet, please do the honors.