No one wants to have to use their contingency plans, to do what they planned for in a 'worst case scenario.' No one wants to break that glass 'in case of an emergency'. No one wants to have to use Stoicism—not at least, the kind of Stoicism that Marcus Aurelius used in the midst of plagues and wars and coups and tragedy.
At the same time, what was that plan for if not for this? What was that emergency equipment for? And wasn't that why people were taught Stoicism, this philosophy designed for adversity and difficulty?
It's obviously for moments like this! Epictetus once said that the whole point of Stoicism was to put ourselves in a position where, whatever happened, we were able to say: This is what I trained for.
Well, that's what this is, isn't it? One of those moments.
Now you get to use it. Now you must use it. Focus on what you can control. Keep your cool. Do the right thing. Be brave. Lead.
Because if you're not going to do it now, when will you?
P.S. One of the great ways to deeply instill the lessons of Stoicism is to journal about them. That's why we created The Daily Stoic Journal—the perfect companion to The Daily Stoicbook (signed copies of both available in the Daily Stoic store—just click the links above). This guided journal helps you think about and put into words a new lesson for each day, based on the words and wisdom of the ancient Stoic thinkers.
If you're a dedicated Stoic reader who's worn out their hardcover copy, we also have a beautiful leatherbound edition of The Daily Stoic, meant for regular use, travel, and years of revisiting the passages. With its genuine leather cover, unique illustrations, premium paper, and sewn ribbon to save your place or your favorite meditation, this book is meant to be a treasured keepsake. Get one for yourself or gift a copy to a loved one who might benefit from these daily lessons.
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