Do you have someone in your life (past or present) that you look to as an example of virtue in action? The Stoics did. They turned to the life of figures like Socrates and Cato. Similarly, many spiritual traditions have great Saints and theologians as models or guides to follow.
In a passage from the Enchiridion, Epictetus says,
“From now on, then, resolve to live as a grown-up who is making progress, and make whatever you think best a law that you never set aside. And whenever you encounter anything that is difficult or pleasurable, or highly or lowly regarded, remember that the contest is now: you are at the Olympic Games, you cannot wait any longer, and that your progress is wrecked or preserved by a single day and a single event. That is how Socrates fulfilled himself by attending to nothing except reason in everything he encountered. And you, although you are not yet a Socrates, should live as someone who at least wants to be a Socrates.”
My recent conversation with Massimo Pigliucci (author of The Quest for Character) revealed that there is significant research behind the notion of role models (a short clip from the conversation included). Prof. Pigliucci explains that the quest for character (and knowing ourselves) is a difficult path. Mentors, role models, and friends are valuable resources on the path.
In one of his letters, Seneca urges his friend Lucilius to do just that,
“So choose yourself a Cato… . Choose someone whose way of life as well as words, and whose very face as mirroring the character that lies behind it, have won your approval. Be always pointing him out to yourself either as your guardian or as your model. There is a need, in my view, for someone as a standard against which our characters can measure themselves. Without a ruler to do it against you won’t make crooked straight.”
To conclude, we are wise to follow the advice of Seneca and several wisdom traditions. Asking ourselves what would Socrates do (or Jesus, Seneca, the Buddha, etc.) can help us to navigate the challenges and choices of daily life.
Who is your Socrates?
Thank you for listening; I hope you found something useful.
Until next time, be wise and be well,
JW
Who is Your Socrates?