2025-11-02
       
 (TXT) Encheiridion 33
       
          Set up right now a certain character and pattern for yourself
          which you will preserve when you are by yourself and when you
          are with people
       
       This is something I really need for myself, a greater
       intentionality to how I live.  I do too many things on a whim or
       impulse.  I know who I want to be, but I don't discipline myself
       into being that person.  I need to start reminding myself of who
       I want to be regularly, probably multiple times a day, at least
       in the beginning.  And among Epictetus' list are many items I
       admire and would like to emulate:
       
       Be silent for the most part: I try to be quick witted and funny
       and often this brings me trouble and causes offense with others.
       I can see people thinking this could be extreme, that I would go
       from this garrulous person to almost monk-like silence.  Well,
       why not just take steps towards it and see where the balance
       lies?  I know it is not where I currently am, so moving in the
       right direction and seeing where I end up would be a good idea
       even if silence is too far.
       
       Take what has to do with the body to the point of bare need: I
       consume too much.  Too much food, too much time on the internet
       too much other things as well.  A life of simplicity and
       minimalism is what I would like.  These things entrap me, and
       push me in directions I would rather not go, and would be happier
       to be free of.
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