Stoic Coffee Break

“Remember, it is not enough to be hit or insulted to be harmed, you must believe that you are being harmed. If someone succeeds in provoking you, realize that your mind is complicit in the provocation. Which is why it is essential that we not respond impulsively to impressions; take a moment before reacting, and you will find it easier to maintain control.”― EpictetusOne of the idea that the Stoics strongly hold is that no one can make us feel anything with our permission. And what do I mean by that?If someone is rude to us, shouldn’t we feel offended?If someone is mean to us, should us feel hurt?If someone gossips about us, shouldn’t we feel indignant?Sure. We can go right ahead and feel whatever we want. Just remember that it’s our choice for feel that way.And how is it our choice? Because we give meaning to the other person’s words or actions. It’s the way that we think about what they did or, that causes those emotions.Have you ever been around someone that is easily offended? They look for slights or ult