Stoic Sage

The underlying Stoic issue in this passage is the importance of prioritizing virtues like deference, respect, and civility in our relationships, particularly with family. As Epictetus notes, "Next, know that you are a brother. This role also calls for deference, respect and civility." This reveals that living well involves recognizing our roles and responsibilities in life, and acting in accordance with the virtues that those roles demand. In this case, being a brother requires us to be respectful, civil, and deferential, even in the face of material conflicts. Someone might apply this insight today by letting go of petty squabbles or arguments with family members over material things. As Epictetus advises, "Never get into family fights over material things; give them up willingly, and your moral standing will increase in proportion." This means prioritizing the well-being of our relationships over our attachment to material possessions. For example, if you find yourself in a situation where you're arguing with a family member over something insignificant, you could take a step back and remember that your relationship with them is more valuable than the thing you're fighting over. By giving up your attachment to the material thing and choosing to act with deference and respect, you can strengthen your relationship and improve your moral character. As Epictetus notes, "Make a gift of your box seat in the theatre, or a bit of food, if that’s at stake, and see the gratitude you get in return – how much greater it is than the sacrifice." This suggests that the benefits of acting with virtue and generosity can far outweigh the costs, and that by prioritizing our relationships and acting with kindness, we can create greater value and happiness in our lives. What is one thing you could let go of today in order to act with greater deference, respect, and civility towards a family member or loved one?