210213 What I learned in my studies this morning

Today's Tao:

I have three treasures which I hold and keep. 

The first is mercy; the second is economy;

The third is daring not to be ahead of others. 

From mercy comes courage; from economy comes generosity; 

From humility comes leadership.

From The Daily Stoic: 

Temptation is tough. Usually, though, once I have given in and tasted the ephemeral pleasure it affords, I find it wasn't worth it. 

Here's the nut: pleasure is an unworthy aim. It is fleeting, unsubstantial, and immensely forgettable. 

I never find myself automatically re-feeling the pleasure I experience from giving in to temptation. If I want to remember it, I have to actively try to do so. 

I often, however, find myself dwelling on the aftereffects of my weakness; the bloat or guilt or regret of it. 

I need to focus on my real goal: happiness. 

Happiness can last. Happiness can be sustained. Happiness can be shared with others continously. 

That is a goal worth pursuing. 

“Whenever you get an impression of some pleasure, as with any impression, guard yourself from being carried away by it, let it await your action, give yourself a pause . After that, bring to mind both times, first when you have enjoyed the pleasure and later when you will regret it and hate yourself. Then compare to those the joy and satisfaction you’d feel for abstaining altogether. However, if a seemingly appropriate time arises to act on it, don’t be overcome by its comfort, pleasantness, and allure— but against all of this, how much better the consciousness of conquering it.”—Epictetus, Enchiridon, 34

From Eric Hoffer, Part III, Unifying Agents:

Suspicion 

Suspicion of your fellow Movementarians is the norm. If everyone is fearful of being accused of apostasy, everyone not only ostentatiously follows the Rules, but also goads their comrades into ever greater displays of party faithfulness. 

Cf. political correctness in the 90s and cancel culture in current affairs. No matter your previous liberal bona fides, say a single thing out of lockstep with the Accepted Truth of the moment and your life will be ruined. 

Don't for a second believe this is solely a sin of the left. Try being insufficiently religious, or not supporting the military / the police / the flag / the anthem with proper zeal in conservative arenas: you'll find the same strict enforcement of orthodoxy. 

(The True Believer, XIV-101)