You're Not Dead...Yet

Someday, you will be dead.

But the good news is, you’re not dead yet.

So how will you spend this day—this life?

That is a question only you can answer; that’s something under your control.

But to live this life fully, you have to find your calling, your purpose—the meaning of life.

I know, I know; it’s a tough thing to do.

The Stoics said that a Stoic’s purpose is to be good. “The fruit of this life is good character,” said Marcus Aurelius.

But, between me and you, we may find that this alone is not enough.

Aristotle said that virtue is the sole good…but we too need some money, some good books to read, a few amazing movies to watch, inspiring music to listen to, friends we treat as family, good health, etc. to live even better.

Existentialism says that life has no meaning on its own, by default…we must assign meaning to it.

Instead of constantly asking life, “What’s your meaning?” … life is actually the one asking us this question, and our thoughts and actions are the response.

Do your thoughts revolve around money and success? Then making lots of money is your purpose with all the problems and blessings this brings.

If you constantly think about where your next dopamine shot will come from—sex, drinks, weed, attention—it’s clear that pleasure is your life’s purpose.

On the other hand, if you think about your goals, Stoic studies, leaving your mark on this world, and friends, then that’s your purpose.

Only you can choose your purpose for yourself.

And I encourage you to do it now while there’s still time, “lest you want to die like one of the masses,” as Epictetus put it to warn his students.

So, as Stoic to a Stoic, I’m asking you…

PS. The newsletter is growing, and I appreciate every single one of you guys.

PS2. As always, feel free to respond to this email and I’m happy to chat Stoicism with you!