Quote Originally Posted by O'Searcaigh View Post
Thank you for your kind comments. I of course agree re: the practical value of the ancient Greek philosophers -- both academic (Plato, Aristotle) and the "non-academic" (Skeptics, Stoics etc). If I had my way, I'd make the Enchiridion required reading for everyone -- I frequently did make it required for many of my philosophy courses for which the students actually thanked me for doing so. I also "prescribed" it for many of my patients/clients. Not a more practical or succinct "handbook" anywhere. And yes, far beyond (but interestingly including) kilt-wearing. "There are things within our control and things not within our control..." -- knowing which are which is the beginning of at least some degree of wisdom; not to even try to know is just plain foolish! Like Jock Scot's signature line says: "Life is hard; its even harder if you're stupid? (John Wayne) Thanks again for your kind response.


Sorry to get off topic but I just had to share this. I'm a passionate classicist, and like any good classicist I've had a little too much red wine tonight. Anytime I get to reference anything from 400 AD or before I get a little giddy. This is my favourite quote from stoic philosophy from the philosopher emperor, Marcus Aurelius.

"Everything that happens is as normal and expected as the spring rose or the summer fruit; this is true of sickness, death, slander, intrigue, and all the other things that delight or trouble foolish people." (I PCed it a little by changing men to people).


Cheers!