“That's why the philosophers warn us not to be satisfied with mere learning, but to add practice and then training. For as time passes we forget what we learned and end up doing the opposite, and hold opinions the opposite of what we should.”
- Epictetus, Discourses, 2.9.13-14
May 19, 2021 7:00 AM
Few people can learn a sport in a few minutes and become masters. One must learn the rules and strategies. Then learn how to implement those strategies through practice and discipline. Step away from the sport a few months or longer, and you need to repeat some of these steps.
Conclusion
Stoic philosophy is no different. Reading about stoicism does not make you a Stoic. Practice, reflection, and a thirst for more philosophy are required. Digest, train, reflect and then start it all over again in the morning.