So how can we possibly wonder, if, having squandered our attention on material things, we act in a way that is mean, shameless, worthless, cowardly, meek – a complete nightmare? We didn’t practise, or care about, that. [19] Rather than death or exile, if we feared fear itself, we would practise avoiding the things we believe to be bad. [20] As it is, in the classroom we’re fierce and fluent, quick to answer any little question on these topics, and adept at drawing the right conclusion. But force us to put the principles into practice and we’re as good as lost. Let any danger loom and you will discover what we really practised and trained for. [21] Then, because of our negligence, we forever compound our problems and make our situations out to be worse than they actually are. [22] So, for instance, whenever I’m on board ship and gaze into the deep, or look around me and see nothing but ocean, I’m gripped by terror, imagining that if we wreck I will have to swallow all this sea. It doesn’t occur to me that around three pints will about do me in. So is it the sea that terrifies me? No, it is my imagination. [23] Again, in an earthquake, I am prone to picture the whole city coming down on top of me, whereas, in fact, a single brick is enough to dash my brains out.
Discourses 2.16.18
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue in this passage is the disparity between our theoretical understanding of virtue and our practical ability to apply it in challenging situations. As Epictetus notes, "in the classroom we're fierce and fluent, quick to answer any little question on these topics, and adept at drawing the right conclusion. But force us to put the principles into practice and we're as good as lost" (Discourses 2.16.20).
This reveals that living well requires more than just intellectual knowledge of virtue; it demands consistent practice and training in applying these principles in daily life. Epictetus emphasizes the importance of preparing oneself for challenges by practising the avoidance of feared outcomes, rather than merely fearing them (Discourses 2.16.19).
To apply this insight today, one could reflect on areas where they feel a disconnect between their values and actions. Ask yourself: "What virtues do I aspire to, and how can I practise them in concrete ways, especially when faced with difficulties or uncertainties?" By focusing on the process of applying virtue, rather than just fearing negative outcomes, individuals can cultivate the strength and resilience needed to navigate life's challenges.
As Epictetus illustrates with his own example of being terrified by the ocean, our imaginations often exacerbate our fears, making situations seem worse than they are (Discourses 2.16.22). Recognizing this tendency, we can work to separate our fears from reality, focusing on what is within our control and taking action accordingly. Today, you might ask yourself: "What is one situation where I can apply this principle, by focusing on the present moment and letting go of exaggerated fears or anxieties?"