Stoic Quote of the Day

Epictetus is inviting us to reflect on the nature of divine power and human understanding of evil, which can lead us to a broader acceptance of life's inherent challenges. In contemplating whether God lacks the ability or desire to eliminate evil, we are encouraged to shift our focus from questioning why bad things happen to how we can respond with virtue and resilience. This perspective aligns with Stoic ideals, which emphasize accepting what we cannot control and concentrating on our own actions and attitudes. Imagine encountering a difficult coworker at your job—someone who seems to spread negativity effortlessly. While you may wish for them to change, pondering whether their behavior is a sign of a cosmic oversight or a divine test distracts from what truly is within your power: your reaction. By choosing to maintain your professionalism and equanimity amid their negativity, you uphold your own values and protect your peace of mind. This approach not only fosters inner tranquility but also reinforces the Stoic belief that goodness and virtue come from how we conduct ourselves, regardless of the chaos around us.