Previous Stoicism

GIVE THANKS

“In all things we should try to make ourselves be as grateful as
possible. For gratitude is a good thing for ourselves in a manner
in which justice, commonly held to belong to others, is not. Gratitude
pays itself back in large measure.”

- SENECA, MORAL LETTERS

Summary

Seneca emphasises the importance of practicing gratitude, noting that it benefits us directly in ways that justice, which is often thought of in terms of how we treat others, does not. Gratitude is a personal virtue that not only fosters positive emotions but also enriches our own lives when cultivated.

Interpretation

In real life, this quote encourages us to actively cultivate gratitude, seeing it as a powerful tool for personal well-being. For readers of The Daily Stoic, it highlights the Stoic value of focusing on what we can control—our mindset and attitudes. Gratitude, unlike external acts of justice, is an internal practice that nourishes the soul and enriches our daily experience, enhancing our ability to remain calm, centred, and appreciative of what we have.

 

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