“Eat like a human being, drink like a human being, dress up, marry, have children, get politically active — suffer abuse, bear with a headstrong brother, father, son, neighbor, or companion. Show us these things so we can see that you truly have learned from the philosophers.”
- Epictetus, Discourses, 3.21.5-6
March 24, 2021 7:00 AM
Epictetus is instructing us on how to be philosophers. Digesting book after book about philosophy will not make one a philosopher. Instead, it is life and the pursuit of knowledge that creates a philosopher.
Conclusion
It is the choices we make daily. While working, enjoying company, venturing outdoors, interacting with our neighbors, hugging someone we love. These experiences allow us to make the most suitable choices and bring meaning to what we have learned.