under marble and gold.”

“Slavery resides

Every time you get upset, a little bit of life leaves the body. Are these really the things on which you want to spend that priceless resource? Don’t be afraid to make a change—a big one.

So yes, use Stoicism to manage these difficulties. But don’t forget to ask: Is this really the life I want?

In other words, it is possible to hold no opinion about a negative thing. You just need to cultivate that power instead of wielding it accidentally.

Is this actually making me feel better? Is this actually relieving any of the symptoms I wish were gone?

If someone does something we dislike, we have to get mad about it.

One thing will stay constant: our freedom of choice—both in the big picture and small picture. Ultimately, this is clarity. Whoever we are, wherever we are—what matters is our choices. What are they? How will we evaluate them? How will we make the most of them? Those are the questions life asks us, regardless of our station. How will you answer?

There is clarity (and joy) in seeing what others can’t see, in finding grace and harmony in places others overlook.