I just realized that it was a little over a year ago when I decided to test out Stoicism. It went quick. I've spent my time with Epictetus, Aurelius, and Seneca. I read Hadot, perused some biographies, and tried to read A Man in Full (someday I'll finish it). I've questioned myself, wrestled with my many faults, reoriented a bit, and mostly stayed the same. It's been a good time.
The Stoic virtues are Justice, Truth, Temperance, and Courage. That said, I prefer Aurelius' streamlined tripartite view of Justice, Truth, and Temperance, with Courage as a natural outpouring of the virtues. I would never argue that one view is truer that the other, I hold to the three virtues model because that matches up with the three disciplines which is pleasing to my limited memory. My struggles to live a virtuous life have led to only the smallest sparks of courage. If I were more courageous, I would give more to the world.
The sparks are there though. A fantasy novel is finally in the works. A small side business is beginning (if the paperwork ever arrives). Projects are on the move. I believe my stoic mindset has contributed to this, even though the moments I'm in it are few. I'm excited. I think this next year will be fruitful. I plan on sharing it all here.
