There is one road to peace and happiness (keep the thought near by morning, noon and night): renunciation of externals; regarding nothing as your own; handing over everything to fortune and the deity. Leave those things in the care of the same people God appointed to govern them, [40] while you devote yourself to the one thing that is truly yours and that no one can obstruct; make that the focus of all your reading, your writing and your lecture attendance.
Discourses 4.4.39
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue here is the pursuit of peace and happiness. According to Epictetus, "one road to peace and happiness" is through "renunciation of externals" (Discourses 4.4.39). This means letting go of attachment to things outside of our control, such as external events, other people's opinions, or material possessions.
This passage reveals that true peace and happiness come from focusing on what is truly within our control, which is our own character, thoughts, and actions. By "regarding nothing as your own" and "handing over everything to fortune and the deity" (Discourses 4.4.39), we can cultivate a sense of detachment and acceptance, allowing us to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and equanimity.
To apply this insight today, one might start by reflecting on what external things they are overly attached to, and then make a conscious effort to let go of those attachments. This could involve practicing mindfulness, gratitude, and self-reflection, and focusing on cultivating inner strength, resilience, and wisdom. As Epictetus advises, we should "devote yourself to the one thing that is truly yours" (Discourses 4.4.39), which is our own character and inner life.
What is one external thing that you are willing to let go of today, in order to focus on what is truly within your control?