Introduction

The goal of stoic practice is not inner serenity, the goal is well-being. That goal can only be achieved through the development of our moral excellence,. Our virtue cannot be developed in isolation from humanity and the cosmos as a whole. The inner disciplines of ascent and desire prepare us for action in the world. However, we must make the choice to engage the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. We must choose to embark upon that sea of troubles that is human existence. It is those externals that lie beyond the walls of our inner citadel that will help us develop, test, and hone our moral character - Virtue.