Epictetus

By Guest Blogger: Rudy Wietfeldt

I recently experienced what initially I thought could be pink eye… only to gradually conclude that my eye condition was likely not conjunctivitis but rather more likely allergies or even the common cold.

The whole situation reminded me of something that I think is incredibly important. It’s a lesson taught to me by old friend Epictetus.

Now the historians in the crowd are undoubtedly quick to point out that Epictetus has been dead for 2000 years, so allow me to say that I am using the word “friend” loosely.

Over the centuries, many people have utilized my friend Epictetus’ words. And many have made quotes about the lessons in his teachings. Martha Washington, Randy Pausch, and others have used the basic philosophy of this very wise deceased Greek guy.

Let me put this in perspective…

It was bottom of the ninth with two out. Epictetus was called in by the Stoics to pinch hit.

Epictetus was a slave. Strike one.

Epictetus had a limp. Strike two. For in ancient times, to have a limp was akin to the modern day cooties.

Did Epictetus strike out?

NO!

Epictetus said, quite simply: That I am not free – that I am a slave – I have no control over this. Similarly, that I have a limp…this too is beyond my control. But am I going to allow these things to make me feel depressed? No sir! Am I going to allow what someone else thinks about me affect how I feel about myself? NO SIR!

“The greatest part of our misery comes not from what happens to us…rather how we interpret what happens to us.”

Talk about a grand slam right out of the amphitheater!

My friend won MVP (Most Valuable Philosopher) for that one.

It really is all about perspective. How we see things determines how we think and feel about them. It also influences how we act.

We all have options with respect to interpretations. We can, for instance, constantly complain about the rainy day. Our inner voice can pretty easily go OCDish and keep saying, “What a horrible day. What a rainy day! What a horrible day!” But what good comes from that? Nada. Nihil. Nussing.

Instead we can choose to interpret the positive perspective. The inner voice could be saying things like: “Rain keeps the grass green and the flowers growing…”

Does it all sound too much like Sesame Street?

Epictetus and I don’t think so.

And by the way, this blog post was brought to you by the letter M and the number 4.

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