October 9th, 2021
When the standards have been set, things are tested and weighed. And the work of philosophy is just this, to examine and uphold the standards, but the work of a truly good person is in using those standards when they know them.
I remember joking with the guys when I was younger and going out to mingle at bars. There were certain ladies there that I was not attracted to at the time because I had a high standard, but by the end of the night my standard was not nearly as high as it was at the start of the night. Immature and ignorant, I know.
I never thought about standards other than at a high level. It is interesting to be given examples of simple opportunities that involve a standard I miss every day. Brushing my teeth, choosing my friends, losing my temper, interactions with my dogs, conversations with my children, etc. All of these examples have a standard that applies, but I rarely think about what that standard is and instead, base the standard on my actions (or better inaction).
Epictetus reminds us to examine our standards, but more importantly uphold our standards. Having a standard is not enough. We need to take action to preserve our standards and avoid falling short.
I believe the authors of "The Daily Stoic" nail the point with the following.
Not, I want to do good - that's an excuse. But, I will do good in this particular instance, right now. Set a standard; hold fast to it. That's all there is.