Reality Is A Mirror

“What else does reason prescribe? To accept the consequence of what has been admitted to be correct.” -Epictetus

Usefully direct in their expression, the Stoics offer powerful reframing for how we see and operate within the world as it is. They also leave no doubt as to their ruthless acceptance of reality, something that can otherwise be seen as a mirror that reflects back that which is undeniable. The undeniable nature of reality makes it a useful tool for assessing misalignment. It then becomes not only about acknowledging reality, but about responding in the measure it requires.

Specific outcomes require specific action. Extreme shifts in state or behavior are often the definitive response to what's been quietly known to be true, and is now painful enough to exact change. The longer reality is ignored, the more severe the required response may be; it thus behooves us to "accept the consequence of what has been admitted to be correct" with alacrity, sparing ourselves and others from any damage due to delay.

An equanimous acceptance of our realities invites the space necessary to productively respond. It’s the declaration of, “This is what is real, and these are my aims. What is required of me [my business, my family, my habits] accordingly?"

Our task as rational beings is to accept reality, and to usefully respond to what it reveals. We then repeat.

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