Practical Stoicism

Why the Stoics Urge Us to Act Before Time and Reason Fade (Meditations 3.1)

Dec 17, 2024

Explore the Stoic motivation to act promptly as we confront the reality of mortality. Discover how mental acuity diminishes with age and the importance of living mindfully. The practice of memento mori is not just a tool for personal goals but a call to contribute to the greater good. Reflect on how recognizing our limited time can lead to a more virtuous and intentional life. Dive into philosophical insights that connect ancient wisdom with modern challenges, urging us to seize the present moment.

18:22

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Quick takeaways

The limited nature of time urges individuals to embrace the present moment for meaningful actions and virtuous living.

Understanding the decline of our rational faculties emphasizes the importance of intentionality and contribution to the greater good before it's too late.

Deep dives

The Importance of Mindfulness in Stoicism

Mindfulness in the context of Stoicism emphasizes the need to recognize the finite nature of life and the potential decline of our intellectual capabilities. As one progresses through life, there's an increasing awareness that each day reduces the remaining time, thus motivating a closer look at how one engages with the present moment. The deterioration of the mind can occur without compromising bodily functions, highlighting the essential role of mental acuity in making reasoned choices and fulfilling duties. By acknowledging that our rational faculties may diminish before our physical faculties, we are encouraged to actively engage with life now rather than procrastinate.

Intro

2min

The Urgency of Mindfulness in the Face of Mortality

7min

Embracing Mortality: The Stoic Path to Virtuous Living

7min

The True Purpose of Memento Mori in Stoicism

2min

Today we begin Book 3 of Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. Meditation 3.1 reminds us that our time is limited—not just by death, but by the potential loss of our rational faculty as we age. Marcus writes that even if life continues, our ability to reason, comprehend, and adapt to events may diminish. He urges us to press forward with our pursuit of Virtue while we still have the capacity to live thoughtfully and intentionally.

Memento Mori—the practice of remembering our mortality—grounds Stoic practice, but Marcus reminds us that it is not a lifehack to achieve personal goals or ambitions. Instead, it’s a practice rooted in the Stoic commitment to living in alignment with Nature and contributing to the greater good of the Cosmopolis. This meditation challenges us to reflect on how we use the present moment, which is the only time truly within our power, to make progress toward Virtue.

"We ought to take into account not only the fact that day by day life is being spent and a smaller balance remaining, but this further point also that, should we live longer, it is at least doubtful whether the intellect will hereafter be the same." - Meditations 3.1

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