240325 What I learned in my studies this morning 4

Today's Meditation(s):

Enchiridion, 33.10 (Waterfield)

Epictetus sounds fun at parties.

Friend: Did you see the game yesterday?

Epictetus: Yes. It taught me acceptance and patience.

Uh-huh.....

I'm a fan of hockey and college football. I watch. I wear the shirts and hats. I go to the games when I can. I cheer when our guys do well. All the normal fan stuff.

What I don't do, and what I believe is Epictetus' real warning here, is get emotionally involved in the outcome of the game.*

I smile and enjoy it when my team wins, but, when they lose or play poorly, I let it slide. There's no sadness or ire. Just acceptance and looking forward to the next game.

Perhaps this is insufficiently Stoic for some — but but but Epictetus said not to go to the games! Don't be seen supporting a side! Real Stoics don't....

That's ok. They do their thing. I'll do mine.

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* Also, Roman games were quite political.  Supporting a team over the other sent a stronger signal then than it does today.