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Smile back at death

Stoics like the old Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius viewed death not as an evil or a tragedy, but as a natural, neutral, and inevitable part of the rational universe.

“Do not despise death. Welcome it, rather, as one further part of nature's will.” (Marcus Aurelius)

“Death is not an evil. What is it then? The one law mankind has that is free of all discrimination.” (Seneca the Younger)

The Roman philiosopher Seneca even focused heavily on practical ethics, dealing with adversity, and mastering human emotions. He taught that philosophy is a tool for daily survival and mental peace.

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Thinkerbell · 46-50, F
"Death is not an evil. What is it then? The one law mankind has that is free of all discrimination.”

Seneca didn't get that quite right.

Some people die slow, painful deaths.
Others simply faint and are dead without ever knowing that they were dying.

The application seems rather discriminatory to me...
val70 · 56-60
@Thinkerbell I know that sentiment too. My mom suffered terribly before she died. And the thing is something I could have later on as well. No, please do read what C.S. Lewis wrote on pain and coping with death.
TheHammer · M
Lots are philosophical about death until it's knocking at their door.
val70 · 56-60
@TheHammer To smile at it is for the living though. Who live really.
TheHammer · M
@val70
Sure
Munumbis · 46-50, M
Don't use it as a easy way out though like a lot of these nut cases do.

 
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