Short Works · Chapter
CLVIII explained
A concise instruction on achieving emotional tranquility by mentally reframing future events as if they have already occurred, thereby practicing acceptance.
What happens
A concise instruction on achieving emotional tranquility by mentally reframing future events as if they have already occurred, thereby practicing acceptance.
Themes in this chapter
Acceptance of Nature and Fate
The core technique involves accepting future events as unchangeable facts, aligning one's mindset with fate.
Inner Freedom and Slavery
The advice aims to free the mind from sorrow (a passion) by changing its judgment about anticipated events.
Characters to notice
- Epictetus
The author of the aphorism, advising on a mental technique for equanimity.
Key passages
“If you wish to live a life free from sorrow, think of what is going to happen as if it had already happened.”
To avoid distress, mentally treat future events as past and therefore unchangeable.
A practical exercise in premeditatio malorum (premeditation of evils) to cultivate acceptance.