Stoicism encourages us to understand our social nature as human beings. Where much of stoicism is linked to self mastery, we cannot define ourselves in a vacuum. We actually need to live as individuals within a collective to be complete. When we live with others we cannot control them, we can only control our own perceptions of them and our reactions to them. All to often I tend to mirror those around me. They get angry, I get angry. They are happy, I am happy. It is as if others have an undue influence on my life.
In my view the sage will be unaffected by what others think, do or say. The sage will with consideration still act to the good of all while acknowledging their right to be who they choose to be. The freedom of will is valued the highest right of being human as long as that right does not itself violates the same right for others. This freedom does not by itself lead directly to the higher good of all. People make mistakes with the best and most sincere intentions. What does the sage then do when placed in a situation that is toxic in terms how other people act. The sage applies reason in order to remain unelected and yet patiently remain engaged with compassion, clarity and consideration.
Most of my concerns relates to others, caring for there needs. Putting food on the table. As a Stoic I can adjust and adapt but the people around me still live caught in their perceptions and passions. Not everybody lives by reason. The Stoic accepts it with compassion and aims to live by example.
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