Social | zeal4living

In order to work with others harmoniously, I developed my communication skills. I suspend my judgement of others in order to listen to them and understand them. I ask questions and reflect on my own understanding. I speak from reason and look at every situation free from irrational emotional responses. I have a confidence in my own opinion and reason because I spent the time to develop my reasoning capability. I weigh all opinions and insights imparted to me with fairness impartiality and respect. I am bold enough to present my own insights without any hesitation or fear of conflict in a manner that seeks collaboration and growth. My words are measured for maximum effect. I calculate not just the present moment impact but consider the karmic resonances created from my actions. Collaboration trumps competition when there is a common desire for higher purpose.

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.