Epictetus: 'All philosophy lies in two words, sustain and abstain.'

All philosophy lies in two words, sustain and abstain.

The quote by Epictetus, "All philosophy lies in two words, sustain and abstain," encapsulates the essence of a well-lived life. At its core, this quote urges individuals to find balance by learning when to hold onto certain aspects of life and when to let go. It emphasizes the importance of moderation and self-control in navigating the ups and downs of existence. By sustaining what is vital and abstaining from what is unnecessary, one can cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment.To delve deeper into the significance of this quote, let's introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that complements and expands upon Epictetus' wisdom – the idea of impermanence. While Epictetus suggests finding a middle ground between sustain and abstain, the concept of impermanence reminds us that everything in life is temporary and subject to change. This juxtaposition creates an intriguing exploration of the human experience and how we can navigate the dynamic nature of existence.When we contemplate sustaining, we acknowledge the aspects of life that bring us joy, growth, and fulfillment. It is about recognizing and nurturing the relationships, passions, and endeavors that add value to our lives. Sustaining involves embracing what aligns with our values and contributes positively to our overall well-being. This could range from nurturing meaningful connections with loved ones to pursuing a fulfilling career or engaging in creative pursuits.On the other hand, abstaining refers to the act of letting go or releasing what no longer serves us. It calls for discernment and the ability to detach from attachments. Abstaining can be difficult as it often requires relinquishing the familiar, the comfortable, or even harmful habits. It could involve abstaining from negative relationships, toxic patterns of behavior, or material possessions that distract us from our true purpose. By abstaining, we clear space for new experiences, growth, and the possibility of discovering something more fulfilling.Now let's introduce the concept of impermanence and explore how it relates to Epictetus' philosophy. Impermanence recognizes that everything in life is subject to change, whether it be relationships, career paths, or even our own physical bodies. By understanding and accepting the transient nature of existence, we can cultivate a sense of detachment from both the outcomes of our actions and the possessions we own.In this context, impermanence acts as a gentle reminder that sustain and abstain are not meant to be static absolutes, but rather dynamic concepts that evolve alongside the changing circumstances of life. It encourages us to embrace the present moment fully, recognizing that both sustain and abstain are fluid and require continuous reassessment.While Epictetus emphasizes moderation and finding balance through sustain and abstain, the concept of impermanence reminds us not to become too attached or fixated on particular outcomes. It encourages us to adapt to life's inevitable changes and approach them with a sense of openness and curiosity. Instead of rigidly clinging to what is familiar or resisting necessary change, we can learn to flow with the rhythm of life, embracing its ebb and flow.Ultimately, Epictetus' quote and the concept of impermanence invite us to live intentionally and mindfully. They remind us that philosophy extends beyond mere thoughts and ideas; it encompasses how we choose to engage with the world around us. By embracing sustain and abstain and acknowledging the impermanence of life's experiences, we can cultivate a sense of balance, resilience, and inner peace. It becomes a gentle dance of finding what sustains us while having the courage to let go and abstain from what no longer serves our growth and well-being. In this way, we can navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and grace.