Today's Stoic Thought
“Happiness is not to acquire and enjoy, but nothing to be desired, as it is to be free.”Epictetus
In modern life, instead of chasing after material possessions for happiness, we can find joy in freedom from external desires. For example, when we stop constantly seeking approval from others on social media, we experience true contentment in being authentic to ourselves and free from external validation.
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
The verse reminds us not to store up treasures on earth but to focus on the treasures of heaven. This aligns with the Stoic idea of finding happiness in being free from material desires and seeking contentment within oneself, rather than in external possessions.
Another Quote