To begin with, then, you must purify your intellect by training your thoughts: [20] ‘My mind represents for me my medium – like wood to a carpenter, or leather to a shoemaker. The goal in my case is the correct use of impressions. [21] The body is irrelevant to me, as are its members. Death, too, whether of the whole body or a part, can come when it likes. [22] And exile? Where can they send me? Nowhere outside the world, since wherever I end up, the sun will be there, as will the moon and stars. There will still be dreams, birds of augury, and other means of staying in touch with the gods.’
Discourses 3.22.19
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue here is the importance of mental clarity and detachment from external events. As Epictetus notes, "My mind represents for me my medium" (Discourses 3.22.20), emphasizing the significance of the mind in shaping our experiences.
This passage reveals that living well involves purifying one's intellect by training thoughts to focus on what is truly important. Epictetus highlights the need to distinguish between what is within our control and what is not, stating that "the body is irrelevant to me, as are its members" (Discourses 3.22.21). This detachment from physical concerns allows us to concentrate on our mental and moral well-being.
To apply this insight today, one could start by recognizing what aspects of their life are within their control and what are not. By letting go of worries about external events, such as exile or death, we can redirect our energy towards cultivating inner strength and wisdom. As Epictetus says, "wherever I end up, the sun will be there, as will the moon and stars" (Discourses 3.22.22), reminding us that some things remain constant and beautiful, regardless of our circumstances.
In practical terms, someone might apply this insight by taking a few moments each day to reflect on their thoughts and priorities. They could ask themselves: What are my values, and am I aligning my actions with them? What are the things that truly matter to me, and how can I focus on those today? By doing so, they can begin to purify their intellect and develop a greater sense of inner peace and clarity.
What is one thing you can let go of today, in order to focus on what truly matters to you?