Previous Stoicism

LOOKING OUT FOR EACH OTHER

“It’’s in keeping with Nature to show our friends affection and to celebrate their advancement, as if it were our very own. For if we don’t do this, virtue, which is strengthened only by exercising our perceptions, will no longer endure in us.”

- MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS

Summary:
Seneca highlights the importance of expressing affection and celebrating the successes of our friends. He argues that doing so aligns with our natural instincts and strengthens our virtues. If we fail to practice this, we risk losing those qualities that make us virtuous.

Interpretation:
In real life, this could mean that when a close friend achieves something significant—like a job promotion or personal success—we should genuinely celebrate their achievement as if it were our own. By sharing in their joy, we reinforce positive emotions and strengthen our bond with them. If we don’t engage in such practices, we might become indifferent or envious, which can erode our capacity for kindness and compassion.

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