I especially loved the comparison with enjoying really great food rather than large portions, and savoring great moments in life rather than focusing on it's length
For me it's not death I'm afraid of, but that the option of walking through the open door may not be available due to circumstances outside of my control e.g. loss of mental or physical capacity. Fate permitting, I will be able to accomplish what is up to me at the time of my choosing.
The Chorus in Oedipus echoes the same solution. The argument, “Better to have not been born at all,” is like practicing abstinence for contraception. Illogical. In the U.S. school system it is required teaching as one of the options for contraception. I agree with the Epicureans on the pointless fear of eventually dying--the knowledge one dies--as we carry it in our minds throughout life, too. Moreover, only in the most severe and dire of circumstances, particular to an individual’s suffering situation, can one not find an appreciation for life. There’s time enough for dying.
Well, I agree with his take re fearing death,i.e., don't....I've never had that issue (tho I have plenty of other ones :) ) On the other hand, I'll pass on the deity advice; have thought for many years that all religions, as practiced, cause more harm than good- and that God is along the lines of the Tooth Fairy n Santa Clause..."believe" if you wish; I'll pass.
I especially loved the comparison with enjoying really great food rather than large portions, and savoring great moments in life rather than focusing on it's length
For me it's not death I'm afraid of, but that the option of walking through the open door may not be available due to circumstances outside of my control e.g. loss of mental or physical capacity. Fate permitting, I will be able to accomplish what is up to me at the time of my choosing.
The Chorus in Oedipus echoes the same solution. The argument, “Better to have not been born at all,” is like practicing abstinence for contraception. Illogical. In the U.S. school system it is required teaching as one of the options for contraception. I agree with the Epicureans on the pointless fear of eventually dying--the knowledge one dies--as we carry it in our minds throughout life, too. Moreover, only in the most severe and dire of circumstances, particular to an individual’s suffering situation, can one not find an appreciation for life. There’s time enough for dying.
Well, I agree with his take re fearing death,i.e., don't....I've never had that issue (tho I have plenty of other ones :) ) On the other hand, I'll pass on the deity advice; have thought for many years that all religions, as practiced, cause more harm than good- and that God is along the lines of the Tooth Fairy n Santa Clause..."believe" if you wish; I'll pass.
Not sure why, but unlike Andrew Ralston, this all seemed empty to me. Bad mood mayhap.
I find Epicurus more interesting the more I learn of him. Thanks!