At the heart of our being, we frequently dive into our inner self to comprehend the essence of our existence, notably during periods of despair and desperation. In this era of pervasive social media, we are nurtured to assume that we are destined to be the monarch of the collective, only to realize we are merely another industrious worker bee. Our pursuits in life vary dramatically: while figures like Crassus embody our chase for wealth, stories like Romeo and Juliet exemplify our quest for love. Meanwhile, a few seek to merely be good, live an honorable life akin to Marcus Aurelius and Antoninus Pius. We are blessed with the privilege of being on this grand stage which we call life, yet we often belittle ourselves. We often compare ourselves and tarnish our blessings, plundering our souls. We are familiar with the saying, “comparison is the thief of joy,” yet as humans, we still fall into the trap of comparison.
As a child, I often pondered the merit of comparison. I inclined towards it, arguing that without comparison, a person’s brilliance and skill cannot fully radiate on the grand stage. Although we humans have an abundance to offer, we settle for so much less. It’s often through comparison that we ascend to the greatest heights. However, not all comparisons are created equal. Some yield envy, animosity, and displeasure. Yet, as men, we should compare to recognize our potential, to see what more we can achieve. If Bill Gates and Steve Jobs hadn’t possessed the drive and tenacity to outshine each other, the world would be dramatically different. We should hold onto the type of comparison that uplifts us, motivates us to do better, and discard all other forms, as they are toxins that corrupt the mind and damage the soul.
While some soar beyond the heavens, there are those who dedicate their lives to partying, video games, and other pursuits in the name of happiness. These individuals are misguided, and those who surround themselves with such people are even more so, for a person is often the product of their environment. Just as no single tree stands out in a vast field or no individual leaf on a branch, why then do we spend our time with those who don’t uplift or inspire us?”
Do we expend our fleeting time on this planet merely in pursuit of happiness? Should we not reserve that for the afterlife, focusing our efforts on the test at hand? Strive for the finish line, accomplish what you can with the utmost focus, and circumvent distractions. As Seneca reminds us, it’s not that we have a short time to live, but that we squander much of it. Imagine if we replaced all our time spent on frivolities like video games, movies, and even reading – which can also serve as a distraction – with learning and acting on that knowledge, as it is only through action which leaves a print marking humanity. Just as a society does not thrive by the writing of laws, but by ensuring they’re upheld by its citizens.
Just like society writing of laws, we should aim to construct a code of law for ourselves, a life guide we strive to abide by. As long as we honor our god and stay true to our code, what is there to lament? Our purpose is to become the best possible version of ourselves, and the rewards will follow.
Similarly, it’s incumbent upon us to forge a personal code of ethics, a beacon to guide our lives. By honoring our beliefs and being true to our code, we find purpose. But, a challenge remains: defining this code. Stoics hold virtue as the supreme good, while existentialists contend that existence precedes essence, emphasizing individual freedom. What I believe however is that In positing a framework for human ethics and behavior, it is essential to recognize the primacy of individual existence. Each person must prioritize actions that resonate with their intrinsic self-interest, recognizing that they are the central figure in their own life narrative. Nevertheless, this self-centric approach should be tempered by a commitment to the broader good. Actions should, as a general principle, strive to propagate goodness, even if they result in minor discomfort or harm to others. Such actions are justifiable provided the cumulative benefit substantially outweighs the detriment. It is crucial, however, that one does not endanger or significantly harm oneself in this pursuit, as each individual’s life experience is unique and paramount. Furthermore, an existential acknowledgment of life’s transient nature and the inevitability of death is imperative. We must view death as a natural culmination—an eternal rest—and frame our lives with the understanding of its impending certainty. In essence, our ethical compass should champion the dual objectives of individual well-being and collective welfare, all while remaining grounded in the existential truths of our existence.
While Ryan Holiday and Plato might find this approach overly ‘egotistical,’ I contend that a life overly preoccupied with the thoughts and affairs of others lacks depth and substance. By harmoniously blending self-interest with a genuine concern for the greater good, one not only grounds their ego but also finds the wings to ascend to unparalleled heights.
Samnehs Blogs 