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IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

“Being unexpected adds to the weight of a disaster, and being a surprise has never failed to increase a person’s pain. For that reason, nothing should ever be unexpected by us. Our minds should be sent out in advance to all things and we shouldn’t just consider the normal course of things, but what could actually happen. For is there anything in life that Fortune won’t knock off its high horse if it pleases her?”

- SENECA, MORAL LETTERS

Summary
In this quote, Seneca emphasizes the importance of being mentally prepared for life’s uncertainties. He advises that unexpected events amplify suffering because we are caught off guard, making disasters feel worse. To mitigate this, we should anticipate not only what usually happens but also what could happen, as Fortune can change anything at any time.

Interpretation
This teaches us to embrace the Stoic practice of premeditatio malorum, or “the premeditation of evils.” By mentally preparing for potential challenges and setbacks, we can reduce the shock and emotional pain when things go wrong. In real life, this means accepting that life is unpredictable—relationships may falter, careers may shift, or health may decline—and by acknowledging these possibilities in advance, we can approach life with greater resilience and inner peace.

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