Stoic Philosophy: Enchiridion of Epictetus.

It is clear that Epictetus’ Enchiridion, knows as “the handbook,” contains stoic ethnic advice for a happy/flourishing life. Epictetus provides inspiring lessons that help us undestand how to achieve a good, stoic life. His philosophical teachings mainly distinguish between what we can and cannot control. The events that happen out of our control should not interrupt nor disturb us but our emotions and thoughts. He states, “Some things are up to us, and some are not up to us. Our opinions are up to us, and our impulses, desires, aversions… Our bodies are not up to us, nor are our possessions, our reputations…” (pg. 5).

By nature, Epictetus advises, “Do not seek to have events as you want them tp, but instead want them to happen as they do happen, and your life will go well.” (pg. 8). I find this perspective interesting because not only it’s true, but it challenges the idea that it’s easy to wish for favorable outcomes. In reality, we should obtain a mindset of hopeful acceptance, knowing that we cannot control when events unfold, much like the unstoppable passage of time. Adopting the idea of “everything in its time”. I believe that fate will ensure that happiness, relationships, or peace will come at the right time.